Committee hears bill to let adventure parks and similar venues hold sports entertainment liquor licenses
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Summary
A House bill would expand sports‑entertainment liquor-license eligibility to include fenced adventure parks and other fee‑entry recreational venues while keeping LCB authority over layout, staffing ratios and underage/intoxication protections.
The Consumer Protection & Business Committee on Jan. 21 heard House Bill 21‑28, which would broaden eligibility for Washington’s sports‑entertainment facility liquor license to publicly or privately owned facilities where patrons engage in sports, amusement or recreational activities for a price. Committee staff Peter Clodfelter summarized the measure, saying it would allow indoor, outdoor or mixed premises to qualify while preserving LCB authority to impose conditions and require operating plans to prevent underage service and over‑service.
“The bill before you, House Bill 21‑28, would amend the eligibility for the sports entertainment facility liquor license,” committee staff Peter Clodfelter said in his briefing, describing existing LCB rules on staffing ratios, seating and limits on beverage sales.
Representative Mike Steele, the bill’s prime sponsor, said the bill responds to a constituent in his district — the Leavenworth Adventure Park — and described the park as a fully fenced, controlled environment that seeks the ability to serve alcohol across the premises for adult supervisors and customers.
Sean DeWitts of the Washington Hospitality Association testified in support, saying the bill “modernizes Washington’s liquor licensing frameworks” while maintaining public safety. Opponents were limited in this hearing; remote witness Nancy West of Leavenworth Adventure Park experienced audio problems and will submit written testimony, the chair said.
Members pressed whether the bill amounts to an expansion of alcohol access. Representative Reeves, citing concerns common to the committee’s 'dry caucus,' asked about violation rates and whether these venues are more controlled than traditional bars. Supporters said keeping patrons in a regulated, on‑site environment can reduce unsafe driving and that LCB layout and operating‑plan requirements will remain in place.
A fiscal note had been requested but was not yet available, staff said. The committee took no final action on HB 21‑28 during this meeting; the public hearing was closed after testimony.
