HF1372 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Liquor licenses; cities authorized to issue a social district license.
Related bill: SF1182
AI Generated Summary
The bill proposes a new law in Minnesota that would allow cities to issue social district licenses to certain alcohol-serving establishments. Here are the key provisions of the bill:
Authorization of Social District Licenses:
- Cities may issue social district licenses to holders of on-sale liquor licenses whose premises are adjacent to a designated social district.
- The license allows patrons to consume but not purchase alcohol within the designated district.
Social District Designation:
- Cities must formally establish and describe the boundaries of a social district before issuing a license.
- The district cannot include property owned or controlled by individuals or entities that object to it.
- Cities must specify the allowed days and hours for alcohol consumption within the district through an ordinance.
Signage and Enforcement:
- Clear signage must define the boundaries of the district.
- Signs must inform the public of permitted alcohol consumption hours and the responsible law enforcement agency.
- Patrons must consume alcoholic drinks only within the district and dispose of drinks before leaving unless returning to the licensed premises where the drink was purchased.
Maintenance and Public Safety:
- Cities must establish and publicly share management and maintenance plans for social districts.
- Social districts must be maintained to ensure public health and safety.
Requirements for On-Sale License Holders:
- Licensed establishments can only sell alcohol on their premises.
- Customers cannot enter or reenter an establishment with alcohol purchased elsewhere.
- Alcohol sold for consumption in the social district must:
- Be in containers with the retailer’s identity.
- Include a logo or marking unique to the district.
- Be made of non-glass materials.
- Display a responsible drinking message.
- Not exceed 16 fluid ounces.
Rules for Alcohol Possession and Consumption:
- Only alcohol purchased from licensed establishments within or next to the district can be consumed there.
- Drinks must be in approved containers.
- Alcohol consumption is only allowed during the set hours.
- Patrons must dispose of their alcohol before exiting the district unless returning to the place of purchase.
Reporting Requirement:
- Cities with social districts must submit a report within 24 months of the first license issuance.
- The report should include details on:
- The designation process.
- Community and business responses.
- Challenges and public safety concerns.
- Benefits and drawbacks of the district.
- Recommendations for any future adjustments to the law.
The bill aims to allow controlled outdoor alcohol consumption while maintaining public safety and addressing concerns through reporting and regulation.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
February 23, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading, referred to | Commerce Finance and Policy |
March 31, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Author added |