This bill amends R.S.33:1-31 to require the Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) or any other issuing authority to consider mitigating circumstances presented by a licensee before deciding to suspend or revoke an alcoholic beverage license. Currently, the law stipulates that a license cannot be suspended or revoked without a five-day notice of the charges and an opportunity for the licensee to be heard. The new provision emphasizes that the consideration of mitigating circumstances is an essential part of the decision-making process regarding license suspensions or revocations.

The bill aims to ensure a fairer process for licensees by allowing them to present any relevant mitigating factors that may influence the outcome of their case. This change is intended to provide a more balanced approach to enforcement actions against licensees, potentially leading to more equitable outcomes in cases of alleged violations. The act will take effect on the first day of the fourth month following its enactment.