Alcoholic Beverages - Class A License - Retail Establishments (Alcoholic Beverages Modernization Act of 2026)

HB 1303, the "Alcoholic Beverages Modernization Act of 2026," allows qualifying food retailers (with at least 5 food categories and 4,000 sq ft), pharmacies, and retail service stations (with electric vehicle charging) to obtain Class A alcohol sales licenses. It permits these businesses to purchase licenses from existing holders or apply directly to local licensing boards, with approval presumed to be in the community’s best interest. The bill restricts sales to 9 a.m.-8 p.m. (Mon-Sat), prohibits self-checkout systems for alcohol, and bans selling small mixed drinks or exterior alcohol advertising. Existing license holders must be at least 3,000 feet away from the new applicant’s location, and all licensees must complete alcohol awareness training and employ security for alcohol sales areas.