Senate Bill No. 1218 aims to amend current New Jersey law regarding the consumption and advertisement of alcoholic beverages in restaurants that do not hold a liquor license. The bill removes the existing prohibition on these establishments from advertising that patrons may bring their own beer or wine (BYOB) for consumption on the premises. Additionally, it allows restaurants with a salesroom to advertise the availability of certain wines for purchase. The changes are in response to a federal court ruling that deemed the prohibition on BYOB advertising unconstitutional under the First Amendment.

The bill modifies Section 5 of P.L.1999, c.90, by deleting the restrictions that prevent unlicensed restaurants from advertising BYOB options and charging fees related to the consumption of alcoholic beverages. It also clarifies that municipalities and restaurant operators retain the right to prohibit alcohol consumption on their premises. Violations of the new provisions would still classify as a disorderly persons offense, but the bill aims to provide greater freedom for restaurants to inform patrons about their BYOB policies and wine sales.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:33-27