This bill amends current law regarding the expiration of inactive Class C alcoholic beverage licenses, which typically must be renewed or will expire after remaining inactive for two consecutive two-year license terms. The governing body of a municipality has the discretion to extend this period by an additional year. However, the bill introduces an exemption to this expiration rule for licenses held by developers, redevelopers, or their affiliates, as well as tenants of these entities, provided the license is intended for use in a redevelopment, improvement, or revitalization area that is at least 250,000 square feet and has received site plan approvals from the municipality.

Additionally, the bill outlines a process for the transfer of inactive licenses based on the length of inactivity, categorizing them into quartiles for systematic transfer over a four-year period. It also allows for an automatic extension of the inactivity period if the licensee has lost access to the licensed premises due to eminent domain, fire, or other casualties, provided they demonstrate a good faith effort to resume active use. The intent of the sponsors is to accommodate the varying timelines associated with redevelopment projects, which can be influenced by numerous factors such as size, complexity, and permitting processes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 33:1-12.39