This bill amends existing laws regarding the issuance of plenary retail consumption licenses to nonprofit corporations and community theaters in New Jersey. Specifically, it allows municipalities, with the approval of the Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control, to issue these licenses to nonprofit organizations that operate as art-house movie theaters or conduct various public entertainment events. The bill establishes that licenses can be issued for venues with a seating capacity of at least 1,000 persons for nonprofit corporations, while community theaters can receive licenses for venues with a seating capacity ranging from 50 to 1,500 persons, depending on specific criteria regarding the presence of stages and movie screens.

Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which alcoholic beverages may be sold on the licensed premises, including during performances and specific time frames before and after events. It also clarifies definitions for terms such as "art-house movie theater," "performance," and "public entertainment event." Notably, licenses issued under this bill will not count towards the total number of licenses regulated under existing laws, and revenue from concessionaires can be used to support the nonprofit's activities. The bill aims to enhance the cultural landscape by providing more opportunities for nonprofit organizations and community theaters to operate and generate revenue through the sale of alcoholic beverages during events.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 33:1-19.7, 33:1-19.8
Advance Law: 33:1-19.7, 33:1-19.8
Pamphlet Law: 33:1-19.7, 33:1-19.8