This bill proposes to amend existing laws regarding on-premises beverage licenses by removing the requirement for licensees to serve food. Specifically, it amends RSA 178:20, II and RSA 178:21 to eliminate the stipulation that beverages, specialty beverages, and liquor can only be served when food is available. The bill also repeals certain provisions that mandated food sales in establishments such as full-service restaurants, hotels, and vessels, thereby allowing these venues to serve alcoholic beverages independently of food service.

The changes include the deletion of phrases such as "at such times as food is available" and "without food," which previously restricted the sale of beverages in various licensed establishments. Additionally, the bill clarifies that the commission may authorize establishments to sell beverages without the requirement of food being served, thus providing greater flexibility for on-premises beverage licensees. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 178:20, 178:21