SF2535 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

City of Blaine social district license authorization provision

Related bill: HF388

AI Generated Summary

This bill proposes an amendment to existing Minnesota liquor laws to allow the city of Blaine, in addition to Anoka, Shakopee, and Stillwater, to issue social district licenses. These licenses permit onsite alcohol license holders whose premises are adjacent to a designated social district to allow public consumption of alcoholic beverages within the district. However, the sale or direct service of alcoholic beverages within the district itself is not allowed.

Key provisions of the bill include:

  1. Designation of Social Districts: Before issuing a license, a city must define the social district boundaries, including details such as hours and days of operation. Areas where property owners object cannot be included.

  2. Clear Boundaries and Signage: Social districts must have clear signage indicating their boundaries, the local law enforcement agency with jurisdiction, and rules for alcohol consumption, including disposal requirements before exiting the district.

  3. Management and Maintenance: Cities must develop plans to manage and maintain the social district and make this information publicly available on their websites.

  4. Requirements for On-Sale License Holders: Participating businesses may only sell drinks within their premises and must ensure drinks consumed in the social district comply with specific container requirements, including branding, non-glass material, and a maximum capacity of 16 ounces.

  5. Regulations for Alcohol Consumption: Only drinks purchased from a licensed business within or adjacent to the social district may be consumed within the district. Drinks must meet the required container specifications, be consumed only during designated hours, and be disposed of before exiting unless reentering the selling establishment.

  6. Evaluation Report: Within 24 months of the first social district license issuance, the city of Anoka must submit a report to the state legislature assessing the district's impact, community response, public safety concerns, and recommendations for changes.

This bill aims to regulate and monitor social drinking districts while ensuring public safety and compliance with alcohol laws.

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 12, 2025HouseFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 12, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 12, 2025HouseFloorActionReferred toCommerce and Consumer Protection
March 12, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toCommerce and Consumer Protection