Bill to allow multiple independent liquor licensees in one facility draws transparency debate

House Bill 17‑01, heard Jan. 21 by the Consumer Protection & Business Committee, would authorize liquor licensees to operate premises located within a facility that includes separate premises of other liquor licensees. Staff Peter Clodfelter noted the bill had been heard last session and that a substitute version previously removed a proposed Public Records Act (PRA) exemption; this original version before the committee again included that exemption.

Representative Mike Steele, the prime sponsor, said he would accept removing the PRA exemption and described a Lake Chelan constituent who runs separate winery and brewery businesses plus a shared commercial kitchen and needs the ability to lease space to independent operators. Business owner Jody Cowell testified she built a multi‑tenant facility and wants independent, licensed businesses to operate under one roof while remaining separately accountable.

Opponents and distributors stressed transparency and the three‑tier system’s purpose. Scott Hazelgrove urged that LCB receive lease information at license application so the board and the public can detect potential undue influence; he warned that a PRA exemption would limit public scrutiny and weaken the complaint‑driven enforcement that helps enforce tied‑house rules.

Committee members discussed the PRA language; the sponsor said he would accept removing the exemption. No final committee action on HB 17‑01 was taken at this hearing.