H 370
An Act relative to removing liquor license caps in communities
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- Passed House
- Passed Senate
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Bill overview
This bill seeks to eliminate restrictions on the number of liquor licenses that cities and towns in Massachusetts can issue. Currently, many communities have caps on these licenses, limiting the potential for new businesses and potentially hindering economic growth in the hospitality sector. The bill aims to give local governments more flexibility in regulating alcohol sales and supporting local businesses. It is modeled after previous similar proposals.
Key provisions
- Removes existing liquor license caps in Massachusetts cities and towns.
- Allows municipalities to determine their own licensing limits.
- Aims to increase competition and choice for consumers.
- Could potentially stimulate economic activity in the hospitality industry.
- The bill was referred to the Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.
Who is affected
- Cities and towns in Massachusetts
- Liquor license holders
- Consumers of alcoholic beverages
- Hospitality businesses (restaurants, bars, etc.)
- Local governments
Notable changes
- Shifts control over liquor licensing from the state to municipalities.
- Eliminates a longstanding regulatory restriction.
- Similar legislation has been proposed in the past.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Paul K. Frost
Cosponsors
Kelly W. Pease
Paul K. Frost
Arguments in favor
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Bill H.370 194th (Current)
An Act relative to removing liquor license caps in communities
By Representative Frost of Auburn, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 370) of Paul K. Frost relative to removing liquor license caps in cities and towns. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Paul K. Frost
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Summary Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 4 actions for Bill H.370
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 5/5/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 05/12/2025 from 10:00 AM-01:00 PM in A-2 |
| 11/6/2025 | House | Accompanied a study order, see H4677 |
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