SF534 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Chaska social district liquor license issuance authorization
AI Generated Summary
The bill SF No 534 permits the city of Chaska to issue a "social district license" to businesses that allow alcohol consumption in designated public areas. Previously, this was applicable to Anoka, Shakopee, and Stillwater. A social district is an area where people can drink alcohol bought from licensed premises, but within a confined border.
Here are the key points of the bill:
License Eligibility: Only businesses with an existing on-sale alcohol license and that are adjacent to the social district can receive this social district license. It allows the consumption (but not sale or service) of alcoholic drinks within the designated area.
District Designation: The city must define the boundaries of the social district and include details like where alcohol can be consumed and during which hours and days these activities are allowed. Designations need to be passed by city ordinance.
Boundary Signs: The defined area must be clearly marked with signs showcasing the boundaries, the allowed days and hours for alcohol consumption, and the local law enforcement contact.
Regulations for Containers: Drinks must be sold in containers that are not made of glass, display the selling business's name, have a unique mark for the district, mention “Drink Responsibly”, and hold no more than 16 fluid ounces.
Consumption Rules: Drinking is only permitted during specified days and hours and must be done with beverages from the licensed sellers in containers that comply with regulations. Beverages must be disposed of before exiting the district unless returning to the licensed premises.
City Responsibilities: The city needs to manage and maintain the district, ensuring public health and safety. Maintenance plans and district information must be posted online.
Review and Report: Cities with social districts like Chaska must report back to state legislative committees within 24 months, covering areas like community response, problems faced, public safety issues, and overall benefits or drawbacks.
This initiative seeks to regulate and manage alcohol consumption in public social areas while maintaining public safety and decorum.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
January 22, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
January 22, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | Commerce and Consumer Protection |
February 12, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Author added |