MAPA supports the passing of H260 – An Act Relative to License Suspensions. https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H260
- If enacted, H260 would require that any suspension of a license for alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises, resulting from sales to a minor or an already intoxicated individual, to terminate all commercial activity during the period of the suspension.
- H260 supports enforcement by the Alcohol Beverage Control Commission in deterring illegal sales of alcohol beverages.
- At issue is that Section 15 licensees are not treated equally in Massachusetts when a suspension for an illegal sale is issued because stores that primarily sell food can sustain themselves until the suspension ends.
- Cumberland Farms is currently pushing a ballot initiative that would lift the alcohol licensing cap and allow them to sell beer, wine and spirits. They are relying on this loophole if and when they sell to a minor.
- Earlier this year, H260 received a favorable report from the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure. The bill is now before the Joint Committee for 3rd Reading. It needs to be acted upon in order to protect and preserve public safety in Massachusetts. Time may be of the essence due to the decision by the SJC allowing the ballot question to proceed.