The Business Licensing Reform Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 aims to amend existing regulations regarding the issuance and renewal of business licenses for entertainment venues, including theaters and cinemas. Key provisions of the bill include modifying the notice requirements for license applications by requiring the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) to notify the affected Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 30 days prior to granting or renewing a license, and to give great weight to the ANC's recommendations. Additionally, the bill re-establishes the option for a four-year basic business license, allows individuals to renew licenses that have been expired for more than nine months upon payment of a fine, and grants the Mayor the authority to issue refunds for erroneously paid business license fees.

The legislation addresses concerns raised by the business community regarding the potential negative impacts of the Business and Entrepreneurship Support to Thrive Act of 2022 (BEST Act), which is set to take effect on October 1, 2025. The BEST Act would eliminate the four-year business license and impose new hearing requirements for license applications, which the DLCP is not equipped to handle. By restoring the four-year license option and streamlining the renewal process for expired licenses, the bill aims to support the local business economy and ensure that the licensing process remains efficient and accessible.