This bill, requested by the Department of Revenue, aims to revise the laws governing agency liquor stores in Montana. It clarifies that communities with existing agency liquor stores can obtain additional stores if they meet specific population requirements. The bill introduces a competitive bidding process for awarding agency liquor store franchises, establishing minimum bid amounts based on population size, and detailing the steps for bidders to submit and correct their bids. Additionally, it amends the commission rates for new agency liquor stores, ensuring that these rates are set according to the population of the quota area.

Key amendments include the insertion of provisions for competitive bidding and the establishment of commission rates for new agency liquor stores, which are guaranteed for three years. The bill also specifies that the Department of Revenue will determine the opportunity to apply for new agency franchise agreements through this competitive process. Furthermore, it maintains existing regulations regarding the number and location of agency liquor stores, ensuring that new stores are not located within a mile of existing ones in eligible communities. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
HB0165_1.pdf: 16-2-109
HB0165_2.pdf: 16-2-109
Amended: 16-2-109
Introduced: 16-2-109