S5357

The New York State Senate passed legislation to amend the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law on a roll call vote of 60-0. Senate Print 5357, sponsored by Sen. Webb and listed as Calendar Number 568, advanced without recorded debate. The measure, which takes effect immediately upon enactment, received unanimous support from the chamber.

The New York State Senate passed legislation expanding opportunities for bed-and-breakfast establishments to sell alcoholic beverages, voting 61-0 on Senate Print 5357. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Webb, amends the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law to permit licensed breweries, farm breweries, farm cideries, distilleries, farm wineries and wineries to operate bed-and-breakfast establishments. The measure removes the requirement that patrons must be overnight guests to purchase alcohol at a B&B, allowing these small businesses to expand their customer base. Webb argued the legislation supports the hospitality and agritourism sectors while creating parity between bed-and-breakfasts and similar establishments such as hotels and restaurants. The bill also expands tourism opportunities by allowing visitors to enjoy alcoholic beverages at B&Bs comparable to what they might find at hotels. Webb noted the bill complements an earlier resolution by Sen. Ryan supporting small businesses. The legislation takes effect immediately upon passage.