The bill amends the law regarding alcoholic beverages in Arkansas by repealing certain requirements related to wholesalers. Specifically, it eliminates Arkansas Code 3-4-606, which imposed residency requirements for individuals and entities seeking to obtain a wholesale liquor permit. This section previously stated that individuals must be citizens and bona fide residents of Arkansas for at least five years to be eligible for such permits, along with additional stipulations for corporations and partnerships. The bill also repeals a related provision in Arkansas Code 3-4-607(j) that referenced these residency requirements for minimum wholesale permits.

The bill includes an emergency clause, stating that the current residency requirements are likely unconstitutional based on a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision. It emphasizes the necessity of this act to remove what may be an unconstitutional infringement on individuals' rights to conduct business in Arkansas. The act will take effect immediately upon approval by the Governor or under specified conditions if not vetoed.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1760 Original - 3-28-2023 03:56 PM: 3-4-606, 3-4-607(j)
Old version HB1760 V2 - 4-3-2023 02:29 PM: 3-4-606, 04-03-2023, 3-4-607(j)
HB 1760: 3-4-606, 04-03-2023, 3-4-607(j)
Act 839: 3-4-606, 04-03-2023, 3-4-607(j)