This bill amends and reenacts section 60-7-3 of the Code of West Virginia to authorize the use of self-pour automated systems for the dispensing of nonintoxicating beer, cider, and wine on the premises of licensed establishments. The new provisions allow licensees to sell these beverages by the drink for on-premises consumption, provided that they comply with existing regulations regarding the sale of alcoholic liquors. Specifically, the bill introduces a new subsection (b) that outlines the conditions under which self-pour systems may be used, including the requirement for verification of age and the limitations on the amount of beverage that can be dispensed in a single transaction.

Under the new regulations, licensees can activate a self-pour system for customers who have been verified as 21 years of age or older, using a government-issued ID that matches the payment card. The bill specifies that the self-pour system cannot dispense more than 32 ounces of nonintoxicating beer or cider (not exceeding six percent alcohol by volume) and 10 ounces of wine before requiring reactivation of the payment card by the licensee or an employee. This legislative change aims to modernize the service of nonintoxicating beverages in licensed establishments while ensuring compliance with age verification and responsible service practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 60-7-3