House Bill No. [insert number] proposes the enactment of R.S. 26:81.2 and 281.2, which establishes a temporary moratorium on the issuance of alcoholic beverage permits within District 2 of the Louisiana House of Representatives. This moratorium will be in effect from August 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027, prohibiting the granting of permits for the sale of alcoholic beverages in this area. The bill specifically targets licensed premises with Class B or Class C permits that have less than five thousand square feet of public habitable floor area. However, certain exceptions are included, allowing permits for locations within the Shreveport Downtown Development District, Bossier City, and for premises purchased by the owner of another licensed establishment, provided they comply with existing laws.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that any valid permits existing as of August 1, 2026, may continue to be renewed as long as the permit holder adheres to all relevant laws and local ordinances. If a permit holder ceases operations or fails to maintain a valid permit, they will not be eligible for renewal. Furthermore, the bill restricts the issuance of permits for additional locations within District 2 during the moratorium period. The act will take effect upon the governor's signature or, if not signed, after the designated time for bills to become law without signature.