This bill amends section 561.20 of the Florida Statutes, which governs the issuance of special beverage licenses. The key changes include a reduction in the minimum service area square footage for bona fide food service establishments from 2,000 square feet to 1,200 square feet, and a decrease in the required capacity for serving meals from 120 persons to 80 persons. Additionally, the bill stipulates that these establishments must 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 these establishments can sell or deliver alcoholic beverages in sealed containers for off-premises consumption.

The bill further clarifies the licensing process for various types of establishments, including hotels, motels, and culinary education programs, while ensuring that licenses are issued only to the owners or lessees of these facilities. It emphasizes compliance with revenue requirements and establishes penalties for failure to meet these standards, including the potential revocation of licenses. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
S 392 Filed: 561.20