This bill amends current liquor laws to introduce a "Restaurant Delivery License," allowing on-premises licensees, such as restaurants, to deliver liquor alongside meals for home delivery. The new section, RSA 178:21-a, permits restaurants to purchase this license for $250 annually, with specific requirements that deliveries must include food, occur during operational hours, and be for personal consumption only. Alcoholic beverages must be transported in sealed containers with clear labeling and warnings, and delivery personnel must be employees of the restaurant, at least 21 years old, and obtain a signed receipt from the consumer. The bill also reinstates penalties for overserving alcohol, which had been previously removed, imposing stricter consequences for violations leading to serious bodily injury or death.

Additionally, the bill prohibits the delivery of alcoholic beverages to educational institutions and public spaces, such as libraries and parks. The effective date of the act is set for 60 days after passage. The fiscal impact is projected to increase state revenue starting in FY 2027, with estimates ranging from $10,000 to over $100,000 annually as more restaurants apply for the delivery license. Currently, 30 active restaurant delivery licenses generate $7,500 per year, and the Liquor Commission anticipates that the potential for higher profit margins from liquor deliveries will attract more applicants, with no additional costs to the state as the Commission can manage the increased workload with existing resources.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 179:17, 179:15, 179:40
As Amended by the House: 175:1, 179:15, 179:5