H 4597
An Act to ensure economic opportunity related to alcohol licenses
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Bill overview
This bill aims to address potential inequities in the distribution of alcohol licenses in Massachusetts, particularly concerning businesses located near existing licenses. It seeks to ensure that economic opportunities related to alcohol sales are more evenly distributed throughout the state. The bill proposes changes to the licensing process to promote geographic equity and prevent situations where existing licenses limit opportunities for new businesses.
Key provisions
- Addresses licensing disparities for off-premises retail alcohol licenses.
- Focuses on locations near existing alcohol licenses.
- Aims to promote economic opportunity in areas with limited license availability.
- Likely involves adjustments to the criteria used for awarding new licenses.
Who is affected
- Alcohol retailers (off-premises)
- Local communities with existing alcohol licenses
- Potential new businesses seeking alcohol licenses
- Massachusetts residents and consumers
Notable changes
- May modify the process for awarding new alcohol licenses.
- Could impact the number of available licenses in certain areas.
- Intended to address historical inequities in license distribution.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsor
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Bill H.4597 194th (Current)
An Act to ensure economic opportunity related to alcohol licenses
By Representative McMurtry of Dedham, a petition (subject to Joint Rule 12) of Paul McMurtry relative to licenses for off premises retail of alcoholic beverages located near other off premises licenses. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Paul McMurtry
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Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Committee Summary Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 5 actions for Bill H.4597
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 9/29/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on House Rules |
| 10/6/2025 | House | Reported, referred to the committee on Joint Rules, reported, rules suspended and referred to the committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure |
| 10/9/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 1/23/2026 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 02/04/2026 from 10:00 AM-01:00 PM in B-1 |
| 3/30/2026 | House | Accompanied a new draft, see H5306 |
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