Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts House Bill H4176

Introduced
11/9/23  

Caption

Authorizing the town of Holliston to convert a certain liquor license

Impact

The bill modifies the existing framework set out in Massachusetts General Laws, particularly section 17 of chapter 138, which traditionally restricts the types of licenses that certain establishments can hold. By allowing this conversion, the bill not only supports local commerce in Holliston but also sets a precedent for similar actions in other localities, reflecting a trend towards greater flexibility in alcohol licensing at the municipal level.

Summary

House Bill 4176 proposes to authorize the town of Holliston to convert a specific liquor license for Central Café & Convenience from selling only wine and malt beverages to a broader license allowing the sale of all alcoholic beverages, not to be consumed on the premises. This legislation is aimed at enabling local businesses to expand their offerings and potentially increase sales by allowing them to sell a wider range of alcoholic products.

Contention

While the legislation does not appear to have strong opposition or contention in the provided discussions, the changes in liquor licensing can sometimes arouse concerns regarding public safety, responsible drinking, and the regulatory power of local authorities. By loosening restrictions on liquor sales, some community members may apprehend an increase in alcohol-related issues, fostering discussions on how to balance local business interest with community welfare.

Companion Bills

MA H4992

Similar To Authorizing the town of Fairhaven to grant an additional license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises

MA H4990

Similar To Authorizing the town of Sherborn to grant 1 additional license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises

MA H5079

Similar To Relative to further regulating a certain alcoholic beverage license in the town of Southampton

MA H5093

Similar To Authorizing the city of Salem to convert the annual license for the sale of wine and malt beverages to be drunk on the premises pursuant to chapter 75 of the acts of 2008 to an annual license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises

MA H4867

Replaced by Authorizing the town of Holliston to grant an additional license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages

Previously Filed As

MA H425

Authorizing the town of Ashland to grant additional liquor licenses for the sale of all alcohol beverages to be drunk on the premises

MA H5130

Relative to liquor licenses in the town of East Bridgewater

MA H4657

Authorizing the town of Scituate to issue four additional licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises

MA H4155

Relative to adding four additional liquor licenses to the town West Springfield

MA H466

Authorizing the town of Palmer to grant additional licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages

MA S2526

Authorizing the town of Topsfield to convert 4 licenses for sale of wine and malt beverages not to be drunk on the premises to 4 licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises and to prohibit the sale of alcoholic beverages in the containers less than 200 milliliters

MA H4282

Authorizing the town of Palmer to grant additional licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages

MA S274

Authorizing the town of Marshfield to grant additional licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages

MA H3893

Authorizing the town of Lexington to grant ten additional licenses for the sale of wine and malt beverages to be drunk on the premises

MA HB1701

AN ACT Relating to authorizing multiple liquor licensees to have licensed premises within a facility owned and leased out by another liquor licensee or person;

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.