Miscellaneous Alcohol Bill Becomes Law
Changes Impact Permits and Liquor Liability Insurance Requirement
Barre, VT — Governor Scott recently signed H.867, now Act 156, which makes changes relating to the sale and service of beverage alcohol.
Act 156 provides a two-year extension on the previous July 1, 2024 requirement for all licensees offering alcohol for onsite consumption to carry liquor liability insurance. This requirement now takes effect beginning July 1, 2026. DLL pursued the extension after hearing from industry that liquor liability insurance remains unaffordable for many licensees.
Additionally, Act 156 expands eligibility for Special Venue Serving Permits; allows Sampling Event Permit holders to purchase invoiced volumes of beer, wine, or ready-to-drink spirits beverages from wholesale dealers; expands the number of Special Event Permits a manufacturer can draw annually from 10 to 20; and requires the Department to report on the findings of an existing biannual audit that examines, among other factors, the physical placement of alcoholic beverages at retail locations.
Legislation impacting the sale of beverage alcohol is typically introduced annually. The Department serves as an information resource for the Legislature as the bill is considered.
Please contact charles.martin@vermont.gov with questions.
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