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Bill Summary · SB 979

Legislative bill overview

SB 979 is a Hawaii liquor licensing bill introduced by Senators Glenn Wakai and Angus McKelvey. The bill has passed first reading and was referred to the Consumer Protection and Commerce (CPN) and Ways and Means (WAM) committees before being carried over to the 2026 regular session, indicating it did not advance during the 2025 session.

Why is this important

Liquor licensing legislation affects business operations, tax revenue, and alcohol availability across Hawaii. The specific provisions would impact restaurants, bars, retailers, and consumers depending on whether the bill expands, restricts, or modifies licensing requirements or fees.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Changes to licensing requirements could impose new expenses on existing alcohol retailers and hospitality businesses
  • Market access: Modifications to licensing availability may benefit some business interests while disadvantaging competitors seeking to enter the market
  • Tax revenue implications: Any fee adjustments could affect state revenue or shift costs between different business sectors and consumers

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

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