The bill amends section 561.20 of the Florida Statutes, which governs the issuance of special beverage licenses. It revises the requirements for bona fide food service establishments to qualify for a special license by changing the minimum service area from 2,000 square feet to 1,200 square feet and reducing the required capacity from 120 persons to 80 persons. Additionally, the bill stipulates that these establishments must have at least 80 physical seats available for patrons and derive at least 51 percent of their gross revenue from the sale of food and nonalcoholic beverages during specified operating periods.

The bill also outlines the conditions under which a special license can be issued, including provisions for the sale and delivery of alcoholic beverages in sealed containers for off-premises consumption, provided they are accompanied by food sales. It emphasizes compliance with age verification for deliveries and establishes penalties for failure to meet revenue requirements, including potential revocation of the license. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 87 Filed: 561.20