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Bill

A 5387

Authorizes the state liquor authority to issue licenses to new premises for the sale of liquor where such premises is within two hundred feet of a place of worship, or where three or more such premises exist

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Yudelka Tapia

Bill A 5387 allows New York's liquor authority to issue licenses for new liquor sales within 200 feet of places of worship, boosting business opportunities in urban areas.

REFERRED TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
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Bill Summary · A 5387

Summary of Bill A 5387

Bill Number: A 5387
Title: Authorizes the state liquor authority to issue licenses to new premises for the sale of liquor where such premises is within two hundred feet of a place of worship, or where three or more such premises exist
Status: Referred to Economic Development
Introduced: February 13, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5387 aims to amend existing regulations governing the issuance of liquor licenses in New York State. The primary intent of the bill is to allow the state liquor authority greater flexibility in granting licenses for the sale of liquor at new premises located within close proximity to places of worship. This legislative change seeks to address the growing demand for liquor licenses in urban areas where such establishments may be limited by current zoning laws.

Key Provisions

  • Licensing Flexibility: The bill permits the state liquor authority to issue licenses to new premises that are located within 200 feet of a place of worship.
  • Existing Premises Consideration: The bill also allows for the issuance of licenses in areas where three or more existing liquor-selling premises are already established, potentially creating a more competitive market.

Affected Parties

  • New Liquor Premises: Entrepreneurs and businesses seeking to establish new liquor-selling establishments will benefit from the relaxed restrictions.
  • Places of Worship: The bill may raise concerns among religious organizations regarding the proximity of liquor sales to their locations. However, it also acknowledges the presence of existing liquor establishments in the vicinity.
  • State Liquor Authority: This bill empowers the state liquor authority to make more nuanced decisions regarding licensing, potentially increasing its administrative workload.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of February 13, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Economic Development committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: Bill A 5387 has a companion bill, S 7003, which may provide additional context or support for its provisions.

Conclusion

Bill A 5387 represents a significant shift in the regulatory landscape for liquor sales in New York State. By allowing new liquor licenses to be issued closer to places of worship and in areas with existing liquor establishments, the bill aims to foster economic development while balancing community concerns. Stakeholders, including business owners and religious organizations, will need to monitor the bill's progress through the legislative process.

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

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