The bill seeks to modernize and simplify the administration of wine and spirit sales in Washington by removing the per transaction limit on the volume of spirits sold. It amends the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to eliminate the restriction that no single sale may exceed twenty-four liters for various licensees, including combination spirits, beer, and wine licensees, as well as wine retailer reseller endorsements and grocery store licenses. Additionally, the bill updates licensing fees, increasing the annual fee for the combination spirits, beer, and wine license to $316 and the wine retailer reseller endorsement to $110. New requirements for licensees include maintaining a minimum inventory of food products or alcoholic beverages and allowing the sale of confections containing alcohol to individuals aged 21 and older.

Moreover, the bill introduces a "responsible vendor program" aimed at reducing underage drinking and promoting best practices among spirits retail licensees. It specifies that the board cannot deny a spirits retail license to qualified contract liquor stores or holders of former state liquor store operating rights based on the location, nature, or size of the premises. Licensees are also required to provide training for employees involved in the sale of spirits to ensure compliance with laws regarding underage sales and intoxication. The bill modifies the license issuance fee to a fixed percentage of spirits sales revenues and sets the annual renewal fee at $166, with provisions for periodic review and adjustment. Additionally, it offers a transition option for licensees holding both spirits and grocery store licenses to apply for a combination license, thereby streamlining the licensing process for retailers.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 66.24.035, 66.24.179, 66.24.360, 66.24.630