Bill
S 3114
The bill authorizes a temporary summer 2026 pilot allowing designated districts for off-premises alcohol use, extended on-premises hours, and limited public drinking, under local c
This amendment authorizes municipalities to implement a temporary pilot program in summer 2026 to extend hours for liquor sales and to designate districts where alcohol can be consumed off-premises in public spaces. The changes are limited in duration and scope, designed as an opt-in pilot rather than a broad, permanent policy change.
Off-premises sales in designated districts (temporary):
Local licensing authorities in cities or towns may, on a temporary basis, allow licensed establishments to sell alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption in districts that the municipality designates under section 4. Only establishments within a designated district may sell off-premises alcohol for consumption within that district.
Extended on-premises hours (summer 2026):
Licensed establishments may, with local licensing authority approval, extend on-premises sales by up to one additional hour beyond the license’s standard hours. The extension may go until 3:00 a.m. but only through July 31, 2026, and must comply with local rules, regulations, and any license conditions.
Public consumption in designated districts (summer 2026):
Local licensing authorities may designate one or more districts where alcohol may be consumed in public spaces (off-premises consumption within the district). This public consumption is limited to the alcohol sold by participating licensed establishments located within the designated district and is permitted only through September 7, 2026. Restrictions and conditions may be imposed by the municipality.
Limitations tied to existing licenses:
Nothing in the act permits a licensed establishment to sell alcoholic beverages beyond the type or category authorized on its own license. The pilot cannot expand the range of beverages beyond what the establishment is legally licensed to sell under Chapter 138.
Municipalities (cities and towns):
May opt into the pilot, designate districts for off-premises consumption, and approve extended hours, subject to the act’s limits.
Licensed establishments (bars, restaurants, liquor licenses):
May participate if located within designated districts and if approved by the local licensing authority. They must adhere to the license type and any local restrictions.
Public and local residents:
Potentially benefit from extended nightlife options and designated areas for public alcohol consumption during the pilot period, with safety and regulatory considerations determined at the local level.
This is an amendment to House Bill 5478 and is sponsored by Senator Julian Cyr. It is described as a Senate amendment providing a temporary pilot framework rather than a permanent statutory change.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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