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Bill

HD 231

An Act related to granting three additional liquor licenses for the sale of all alcoholic beverages to be drunk off the premises in the town of Marshfield and three additional licenses for alcoholic beverages to be drunk on the premises in the town of Marshfield

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Patrick Kearney

Marshfield gains authority to issue 3 off-premises and 3 on-premises alcohol licenses, expanding local business opportunities and tax potential while potentially affecting existing license holders and raising public health considerations.

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Bill Summary · HD 231

Legislative bill overview

HD 231 authorizes the town of Marshfield, Massachusetts to issue three additional licenses for off-premises alcohol sales (like liquor stores) and three additional licenses for on-premises consumption (like bars and restaurants). The bill grants the local licensing authority discretion to distribute these six new licenses among qualified applicants in the community.

Why is this important

Alcohol licensing is tightly regulated at the state level in Massachusetts, with the number of licenses capped by statute. This bill directly expands Marshfield's capacity to support new businesses in the hospitality and retail sectors, potentially generating local tax revenue and economic activity. It also reflects local demand for expanded alcohol service infrastructure that the town's current license allocation cannot meet.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on existing businesses: Current license holders may face increased competition, potentially affecting their profitability and property values tied to existing licenses
  • Public health and safety concerns: Opponents may argue that additional licenses increase alcohol availability, raising concerns about drunk driving, underage access, or substance abuse rates
  • Local preference and fairness: Questions may arise about how the town will select among applicants and whether selection criteria favor certain types of businesses or entrepreneurs over others

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

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