An Act to ensure alcoholic beverages licensing economic opportunity and geographic equity

This bill would require local licensing authorities to conduct a public hearing and provide written justification before approving new alcohol sales licenses within 500 feet of existing off-premises alcohol stores. The law aims to ensure geographic equity by preventing excessive clustering of alcohol retailers while allowing license transfers that move to more remote locations. Applicants denied a license under these rules would retain the right to appeal the decision. The provisions would only apply to new licenses issued on or after January 1, 2027.