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Bill

HD 6106

An Act authorizing the town of Southborough to grant an additional license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kate Donaghue and 1 co-sponsor

Authorizes Southborough to issue one additional off-premises license for all alcoholic beverages, expanding local retailers’ ability to sell alcohol for off-site consumption.

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Bill Summary · HD 6106

Overview

This bill proposes to authorize the Town of Southborough to grant an additional license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises (i.e., a license for off-premises sale). The measure is introduced in the 194th session of the Massachusetts General Court and is sponsored by [Co-sponsor] Kate Donaghue. The primary effect would be to increase Southborough’s capacity to issue licenses for off-premises alcohol sales, subject to state and local requirements.

Purpose and intent

  • Allow Southborough to grant one additional license for the sale of all alcoholic beverages for off-premises consumption.
  • Align with local economic development goals by expanding licensing capacity to support retailers, supermarkets, and other outlets that sell alcohol for consumption off site.
  • Provide a mechanism for the town to respond to demand for more off-premises alcohol sales, potentially enhancing tax revenue and local commerce.

Key provisions and changes

  • Authorizes the Town of Southborough to issue an additional license specifically for the sale of all alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on the premises.
  • The license would be distinct from on-premises licenses (e.g., bars and restaurants) and would apply to products intended for off-site consumption.
  • The bill establishes that the license is issued in accordance with applicable state laws governing alcohol licensing, as well as any local licensing rules, regulations, and town bylaws.
  • The bill does not create a state-wide mandate; it delegates the authority to the town to decide whether to grant the additional license, subject to compliance with existing regulatory frameworks.

Who would be affected

  • Local government: Southborough would gain the authority to issue one additional off-premises alcohol license.
  • Businesses: Retailers, supermarkets, liquor stores, and other establishments in Southborough that sell alcohol for off-site consumption could benefit from the new license, subject to local approval and licensing processes.
  • Consumers: Residents and visitors who purchase alcohol for off-site consumption in Southborough may have greater access to licensed outlets.
  • State-regulated framework: The license would still operate within Massachusetts’ overall alcohol control laws and the state’s licensing regime.

Procedural and timeline considerations

  • The bill contemplates a local decision-making process within Southborough to issue the additional license, consistent with existing state and local licensing procedures.
  • It does not specify a statewide effective date or broad implementation timetable; issuance would follow standard procedural steps at the local level (application, background checks, public hearings if required, licensing board approval, and compliance with state requirements).
  • Sponsors and legislative history may indicate further steps, such as hearings or potential amendments, prior to floor action.

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Economic impact: Potential increase in local tax revenue from off-premises alcohol sales and expanded retail opportunities.
  • Public impact: Needs to consider local public health, safety, and nuisance considerations typically addressed in licensing processes (e.g., hours of sale, enforcement, and local restrictions).
  • Comparability: The measure aligns Southborough with other municipalities that have exercising local control to issue off-premises alcohol licenses.

Note: This summary reflects the bill’s stated scope and provisions as described. For a complete understanding, readers should review the bill’s text, any fiscal impact statements, and accompanying committee reports or amendments during the legislative process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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