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House Rejects Two‑Person Cap on Liquor Trade Shows; Measure Advance Unamended
Summary
Lawmakers debated a bill to allow department‑sanctioned liquor trade shows for licensees; an amendment to limit attendance to two people per retailer and bar law‑enforcement drinking failed after floor debate, and the bill advanced unamended.
Representative Jones urged lawmakers to approve a measure that would let the State Liquor Commission and the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control host regulated trade shows for licensees to learn about alcoholic products, particularly wine. He said the bill was drafted by the department and carries the commission’s endorsement; department staff and the commission chair were in the gallery to answer questions.
Supporters said the trade shows are designed as educational events for restaurateurs and other licensees who must advise customers about wines and other beverages. Representative Garn said the bill was “tightly drafted” and intended to provide information without promoting alcoholic consumption. He told colleagues the events would be under the commission’s control and would include law‑enforcement presence to prevent misuse.
Opponents urged caution. Representative Cannon moved an amendment that would limit attendance to two people from any single retailer or trade association and prohibit law‑enforcement attendees from consuming alcohol. Cannon framed the amendment as a public‑safety measure, saying, “Two shots of 80‑proof liquor, generally speaking, for a person who weighs a hundred pounds would probably bring them within an hour to the legal limit,” and warned of the risk of intoxicated attendees driving after a show.
Sponsor Jones and other members argued the amendment was impractical. Jones said the legislature was “setting policy direction” and that micromanaging attendance would hamper legitimate training needs — for example, hotels with multiple restaurants who might need to send several staffers. Members from rural districts also said a strict cap would exclude employees of concessionaires who serve tourist destinations.
The House cut off extended debate and put the amendment to a vote; the amendment failed on the floor. Lawmakers returned the bill to its unamended form and advanced it for further consideration under regular House procedures.
The bill includes anti‑bribery provisions referenced to federal statutes and sets enforcement under the Liquor Commission and ABC. Sponsors said law enforcement, ABC officers and commission oversight would be present at any licensed trade show. The fiscal note discussed during questions estimated roughly $13,000 of cost offset by $13,000 of revenue for the state.
