Governor Hochul Makes Major Changes To Liquor Laws In New York State
Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation changing liquor laws in New York State. She signed multiple bills aimed at improving liquor laws and helping small businesses. Gov. Hochul said,
Across New York, breweries, distilleries and other alcoholic beverage businesses are creating jobs and expanding economic opportunity. I'm proud to sign this legislation that will modernize the laws governing the sales of alcoholic beverages in New York.
- Legislation S.5731/A.6941 - Allows stores to sell beer, mead, braggot and cider any day of the week, including Sunday.
- Legislation S.2854/A.7305 - Gives liquor stores the ability to expand their hours on Sunday. They can now open at 10 am and close at 10 pm.
- Legislation S.6443/A.6134 - Extends brewer's licenses from one year to three years.
- Legislation S.3364A/A.2902 - Allows businesses to prepare and keep drinks containing alcohol in pressurized dispensing machines.
- Legislation S.3567A/A.6050A - Give retail stores to sell "complementary gift and promotional items related to wine and spirit sales."
Legislation S.6993A/A.7688 -
adds parcels of land to the list of premises which are exempt from the provisions of law which generally restrict manufacturers/wholesalers and retailers from sharing an interest in a liquor license.
The new legislation is being praised by New York State Brewers’ Association, Empire State Restaurant & Tavern Association, New York State Restaurant Association, and the New York Association of Convenience Stores.
State Liquor Authority Chair Lily M. Fan said,
We applaud the continued efforts by our Governor and the Legislature to help small businesses succeed and protect public safety by addressing antiquated liquor laws. With this legislative package, our licensed businesses will grow economically and face less governmental burden and legislative restraint.