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Bill

Bill

S 6415

Creates licenses for roadside farm markets to sell beer, cider, and liquor

2025 Regular Session Introduced by James Skoufis

Bill S 6415 allows roadside farm markets to sell beer, cider, and liquor, boosting local agriculture and providing consumers with more access to local products.

REFERRED TO COMMERCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND SMALL BUSINESS
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Bill Summary · S 6415

Summary of Bill S 6415

Bill Number: S 6415
Title: Creates licenses for roadside farm markets to sell beer, cider, and liquor
Status: Referred to Commerce, Economic Development and Small Business
Introduced: March 13, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 6415 aims to establish a regulatory framework that allows roadside farm markets to obtain licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages, specifically beer, cider, and liquor. The intent of the bill is to support local agriculture and enhance the economic viability of farm markets by diversifying their product offerings. This initiative seeks to promote local producers and provide consumers with greater access to locally sourced alcoholic beverages.

Key Provisions

  • Licensing Framework: The bill proposes the creation of a specific licensing category for roadside farm markets, enabling them to sell beer, cider, and liquor.

  • Eligibility Criteria: Roadside farm markets must meet certain criteria to qualify for the license, which may include:

    • Being a registered agricultural business.
    • Complying with health and safety regulations.
    • Demonstrating a commitment to sourcing products locally.
  • Sales Regulations: The bill outlines regulations regarding the sale of alcoholic beverages, including:

    • Hours of operation for sales.
    • Age restrictions for purchasers.
    • Requirements for staff training on responsible alcohol service.
  • Local Economic Impact: The bill emphasizes the potential for increased revenue for local farmers and markets, contributing to the overall economic development of rural areas.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Roadside Farm Markets: These businesses would gain the ability to sell alcoholic beverages, potentially increasing their customer base and revenue.

  • Local Producers: Farmers and producers of beer, cider, and liquor may benefit from increased visibility and sales opportunities through partnerships with farm markets.

  • Consumers: Shoppers at roadside farm markets would have access to a wider variety of products, including locally produced alcoholic beverages.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of March 13, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Committee on Commerce, Economic Development and Small Business for further consideration.

  • Companion Bill: A companion bill, A 7355, has been introduced in the Assembly, indicating a parallel legislative effort to address the same issues.

Conclusion

Bill S 6415 represents a significant step towards modernizing the regulatory landscape for roadside farm markets, allowing them to diversify their offerings and enhance their economic sustainability. By creating a licensing system for the sale of alcoholic beverages, the bill aims to support local agriculture and provide consumers with greater access to locally produced products. The outcome of this bill could have lasting implications for rural economies and the agricultural sector.

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

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