The bill seeks to modernize alcohol service regulations in Washington State in anticipation of a major international sports event in 2026. It empowers local governments to request expanded outdoor and indoor alcohol service for liquor licensees until December 31, 2027, allowing for shared service areas among multiple licensees and mandating safety measures such as law enforcement presence. Additionally, cities with populations over 220,000 can host up to 25 events annually with expanded alcohol service on civic campuses. The bill also revises special occasion license fees, increasing the daily fee to $60 and permitting participation in events without counting against the annual limit of 12 days, provided they adhere to the new regulations.

Moreover, the legislation modifies existing laws on the sale and delivery of alcohol, prohibiting delivery of alcohol products after July 1, 2025, while allowing certain sales until that date. It requires that takeout or delivery alcohol be in factory-sealed containers and accompanied by a meal from the license holder. The bill also introduces new outdoor service requirements and stipulates that alcohol delivery must be conducted by qualified employees. Local authorities are tasked with reviewing the impact of expanded alcohol service, and the liquor and cannabis board is responsible for adopting relevant rules. The act is set to expire on December 31, 2027, unless specific funding is secured by June 30, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 66.24.710, 66.08.030, 66.24.690
Substitute Bill: 66.24.710, 66.08.030, 66.24.690
Second Substitute: 66.24.380, 66.24.710, 66.08.030, 66.24.690
Bill as Passed Legislature: 66.24.380, 66.24.710, 66.08.030, 66.24.690
Session Law: 66.24.380, 66.24.710, 66.08.030, 66.24.690