New Hampshire bill allows self-pour drink service in bars with wristband system

The New Hampshire House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee met on April 16, 2025, to discuss a proposed bill that would allow consumers to self-serve alcoholic beverages in licensed establishments. The bill aims to introduce a system similar to one observed in Wisconsin, where patrons can use RFID wristbands to pour their own drinks from a wall of taps.

The bill's sponsor shared his experience at a bar in Wisconsin, where he was able to use a wristband to access various drinks, only paying for the amount he poured. This self-service model allows customers to sample different beverages in small quantities, promoting a more interactive drinking experience.

A key concern raised during the discussion was how to manage intoxication levels among patrons. The sponsor recounted his own experience when his wristband was temporarily disabled not due to overconsumption, but because he was purchasing drinks for others. The bar staff intervened to ensure responsible service by checking on the intoxication levels of his table before reactivating his wristband.

Currently, New Hampshire has limited self-service alcohol options, with only one wine facility permitted to operate under similar rules. The proposed legislation seeks to formalize and expand these practices across the state, with support from relevant regulatory agencies.

The committee's discussions highlighted the potential for increased consumer choice and engagement in the state's hospitality sector while addressing the necessary safeguards to prevent overconsumption. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the bill's provisions and its implications for local businesses and public safety.