This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to define "limited malt liquor" and establish regulations for the issuance of off-sale limited malt liquor licenses. It introduces the term "food retailer," which refers to establishments primarily selling food items, and allows cities and counties to issue off-sale licenses for limited malt liquor to these retailers. The bill also specifies that existing intoxicating liquor license holders are exempt from needing a separate off-sale license for limited malt liquor. Additionally, it outlines the licensing process, including notification requirements to the commissioner and the distribution of license fees to local town boards.

Key changes include the redefinition of "low-alcohol malt liquor" to "limited malt liquor," which is defined as containing between 0.5% and 15% alcohol by weight. The bill also adds provisions regarding the sale of limited malt liquor, including restrictions on sale hours and the prohibition of tampering with the contents of alcoholic beverages. Other amendments address eligibility for permits, disqualifiers for retail licenses, and the refund process for license fees. Overall, the bill aims to modernize liquor licensing laws in Minnesota and expand the availability of limited malt liquor through food retailers.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 28A.16, 340A.101, 340A.301, 340A.402, 340A.408, 340A.409, 340A.410, 340A.414, 340A.503, 340A.504, 340A.508