S 279
An Act returning liquor license control to municipalities
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Bill overview
This bill aims to return control over the issuance of liquor licenses to local municipalities in Massachusetts. Currently, the state government manages these licenses. This legislation would shift the authority back to cities and towns, allowing them to regulate alcohol sales more directly within their communities. The goal is to give local governments greater control over the availability and distribution of alcohol.
Key provisions
- Local municipalities would regain authority over the granting of liquor licenses.
- The state’s liquor licensing system would be significantly altered.
- Local governments would be responsible for setting regulations regarding alcohol sales.
- The bill seeks to return control to local decision-making.
- It would likely impact the number of licenses available in different areas.
Who is affected
- Cities and towns in Massachusetts
- Liquor license holders
- Local governments
- Residents of Massachusetts
- The alcohol beverage industry
Notable changes
- A shift from state-controlled liquor licensing to local control.
- Local governments would have more say in alcohol availability.
- Potential changes to the number and types of licenses issued.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Jacob R. Oliveira
Cosponsors
Jacob R. Oliveira
James B. Eldridge
Pavel M. Payano
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
No arguments in favor have been submitted.
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Bill S.279 194th (Current)
An Act returning liquor license control to municipalities
By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 279) of Jacob R. Oliveira relative to returning liquor license control to cities and towns. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Jacob R. Oliveira Status: Referred to Senate Committee on Ways and Means
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Primary Sponsor Summary
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill S.279
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Referred to the committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure |
| 2/27/2025 | House | House concurred |
| 5/5/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 05/12/2025 from 10:00 AM-01:00 PM in A-2 |
| 1/5/2026 | Senate | Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means |
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