Over the weekend, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a package of legislation that she says will improve New York’s laws related to alcoholic beverages in an effort to expand options for consumers and support New York’s small businesses in the alcoholic beverage sector.
Legislation S.5731/A.6941 allows for the sale of beer, mead, braggot and cider on any day of the week including Sundays. Legislation S.2854/A.7305 allows liquor and wine stores to expand their Sunday hours so that they may open at 10 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. Legislation S.6443/A.6134 extends the length of validity of a brewer’s license 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 allows retail stores to sell complementary gifts and promotional items related to wine and spirit sales. Legislation S.6993A/A.7688 adds parcels of land to the list of premises that are exempt from the provisions of law which generally restrict manufacturers/wholesalers and retailers from sharing an interest in a liquor license.
“Across New York, breweries, distilleries, and other alcoholic beverage businesses are creating jobs and expanding economic opportunity,” Governor Hochul said. “I’m proud to sign this legislation that will modernize the laws governing the sales of alcoholic beverages in New York.”
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.”
