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Committee opts for interim study on bill to let salons and barbers sell one drink after lively debate
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Summary
Lawmakers debated a bill to allow salons, barbershops, and spas to sell one alcoholic drink per appointment; the committee adopted a fee amendment and voted 13‑3 to send SB 669 to interim study amid concerns about enforcement, fairness and the patchwork of existing exceptions in liquor law.
Representative DeVries introduced an amendment to SB 669 to adjust license fees and argued the bill would correct an inequity: salons, barbers, and spas may currently offer a complimentary drink but cannot sell one. "We are at the bottom of a hill on this," a member said of the patchwork of exceptions in state liquor law, and debate focused on fairness, enforcement complexity, and impacts on restaurants and bars.
Proponents said monetizing the one‑drink option could help small businesses recover revenue lost during the pandemic and pointed out the state already has numerous exceptions allowing alcohol service in non‑traditional settings. Opponents, including some members who cited public‑safety and fairness concerns, warned that adding another class of sellers without a comprehensive review would further complicate enforcement and licensing.
The committee adopted amendment 1563h (which raised certain license tier fees) and then voted to send the bill to interim study, 13‑3. The chair said the committee will conduct an earnest interim review rather than letting the bill quietly die, and noted a minority report would recommend 'ought to pass with amendment.'
Next steps: SB 669 was sent to interim study; sponsors and stakeholders were invited to work with the committee during the interim to develop a comprehensive approach to liquor license exceptions and fee structures.
