The bill seeks to amend the Alcohol Beverage Control Administration (ABCA) code in West Virginia by addressing specific provisions related to the sale and sampling of alcoholic beverages. Key changes include the removal of previous restrictions on the number of sample servings and total volume that licensed distilleries, mini-distilleries, and micro-distilleries can provide, allowing for greater flexibility in sampling practices. Additionally, the bill clarifies the definitions and operational requirements for private clubs, emphasizing the need for suitable kitchen facilities and age verification systems for patrons. It also introduces new licensing requirements for various types of private clubs and venues, mandating that unlicensed venues obtain a private club license after their 16th event and submit evidence regarding their operational proximity to approved areas.

Furthermore, the bill updates definitions and requirements for private clubs, including private golf clubs, wedding venues, and multi-sport complexes, each with specific membership and operational criteria. It specifies that private food trucks must maintain a minimum food inventory and obtain local approval, while private hotels and resorts must have full kitchens to serve food and beverages. The legislation also clarifies the maximum allowable alcohol content for certain wines, increasing the limit for port, sherry, and Madeira wines from 22 percent to 24 percent alcohol by volume. Overall, the bill aims to enhance regulatory oversight, streamline operations for private clubs, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards within the alcohol beverage industry.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 60-4-3a, 60-7-2, 60-8-2