HB 879 provides for the delivery of alcohol by a licensed packaged goods retailer (including restaurants, bars, convenience and grocery stores). The legislation would allow the retailer to deliver themselves or through a third party unbroken package alcohol to any address within its licensing jurisdiction. The legislation would require the purchaser to register with the retailer and provide a valid ID and signature upon delivery.
The law provides that any delivery person be 21, have a valid GA drivers license, complete a background check within 12 months and not have a major traffic violation or moving in the past three years, or a DUI in the past seven years. The delivery person can refuse delivery if the purchaser is under the age of 21, fails to show proper ID or signature to match the order, or appears intoxicated.
The legislation states that the packaged goods retailer is responsible for the transaction, and can be punished by $500 for each violation and have their license suspended for 30 days per violation. The legislation gives local governments the power to impose these penalties upon a packaged goods retailer.
The legislation was amended in the Senate Regulated Industries Committee to include language to allow beer, wine, and distilled spirit tastings to take place at a retail store, create a streamlined permitting system between local governments and the Department of Revenue through an online portal, and language to waive distance requirements for universities located in the commercial districts.
The bill is awaiting the Governor’s signature.
