This bill seeks to amend various alcohol laws in Montana, focusing on agency liquor stores, all-beverages licensees, and resort area licenses. Key changes include the establishment of new provisions for agency liquor stores, which will allow for additional stores in growing communities, and the clarification of suitability requirements for licensed retailers operating hotels or short-term lodging facilities. The bill introduces regulations for alcohol service structures at swimming pools and ski hills, and permits the delivery of alcoholic beverages to guests in accommodation units, contingent upon age verification and safeguards against underage service. Notable insertions include provisions for noncontiguous storage areas for alcohol, multiple service structures for licensees, and an application fee for certain licenses, all aimed at modernizing and clarifying the regulatory framework for alcohol sales and service in the state.

Additionally, the bill modifies the issuance and management of restaurant beer and wine licenses, requiring annual confirmation that at least 65% of a restaurant's gross income comes from food sales. It clarifies the requirements for obtaining a beer and wine license, including the necessity of a dining room and kitchen, and allows for the transfer of licenses under specific conditions. The bill also introduces provisions for licensed restaurants to possess liquor for food preparation, stipulating that the alcohol must be cooked out before serving. Furthermore, it establishes application fees based on seating capacity and includes a provision for the department to adopt implementation rules. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the licensing process while ensuring compliance with existing regulations.

Statutes affected:
HB0894_1.pdf: 16-2-109, 16-3-302, 16-3-311, 16-4-105, 16-4-212, 16-4-213, 16-4-406, 16-4-418, 16-4-420
HB0894_2.pdf: 16-2-109, 16-3-302, 16-3-311, 16-4-105, 16-4-212, 16-4-213, 16-4-406, 16-4-418, 16-4-420
Amended: 16-2-109, 16-3-302, 16-3-311, 16-4-105, 16-4-212, 16-4-213, 16-4-406, 16-4-418, 16-4-420
Introduced: 16-2-109, 16-3-302, 16-3-311, 16-4-105, 16-4-212, 16-4-213, 16-4-406, 16-4-418, 16-4-420