This bill amends current liquor licensing laws to allow for-profit organizations to obtain a one-day liquor license and makes barber shops, salons, and spas eligible for on-premises liquor licenses. Specifically, it introduces a new subparagraph (l-a) under RSA 178:22, V, which permits the Liquor Commission to issue limited one-day licenses to responsible individuals representing for-profit organizations, with certain conditions such as a maximum of 500 patrons and a limit of six licenses per entity per year. Additionally, the bill requires that the organization's representative obtain approvals from local fire, health, and police departments before applying for the license. The bill also modifies RSA 179:44, II, to allow tastings on premises approved by the commission, replacing the term "licensed" with "approved by the commission."

Furthermore, the bill adds a new subparagraph (w) to RSA 178:22, V, allowing licensed barbers, hair salons, and spas to apply for a cocktail lounge license to serve alcoholic beverages to customers during their appointments. This license can be issued for a fee of $480 and permits the service of alcohol without restrictions on the presence of minors, provided they are accompanied by an adult. The bill stipulates that records of alcohol served must be maintained and made available to the commission upon request. The act will take effect 60 days after passage, and while it does not provide specific funding, it is expected to generate indeterminable revenue increases for the Liquor Fund in subsequent fiscal years.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 178:22, 179:44
As Amended by the Senate: 178:22, 179:44
As Amended by the Senate (2nd): 178:22, 179:44