Reforming licenses related to sale of alcohol and nonintoxicating alcohol products

The purpose of this bill is to simplify and consolidate WVABCA license structure and fees and provide licensees with additional services for no additional fee. Many licenses are eliminated but the purpose or activity is retained in a new license but with less overall licenses. Certain new privileges are granted with retail liquor outlets being permitted to sell stagnant liquor below cost, beer fees are included with wine, liquor, and private club type licenses; up to six beer floorplan extensions are free for every Class A retail dealer; persons purchasing barrels from a distillery, mini-distillery, or micro-distillery will be permitted to transport in excess of 10 gallons of liquor; distilleries, mini-distilleries, and micro-distilleries will be permitted to sell their manufactured liquor within their market zone or contiguous market zone; wine clubs may obtain a free license to operate wine tasting dinners in licensed premises; certain licensees get beer, wine, and craft cocktail growlers for no additional fee; certain licensees get beer, wine and liquor or craft cocktail growler delivery for no additional fee; and certain licensees get curbside delivery via an application order. Sales through drive-through windows are permitted already for no additional fee. Some eliminated items include: 24 licenses, additional beer license fees when selling beer for on-premises or off-premises sales of beer as wine or liquor licensee; the special markup for distilleries, mini-distilleries, and micro-distilleries; private cigar shop license; private multi-vendor fair and festival license; a transfer to the Tax Commissioner of wine proceeds; and prorated fees in certain circumstances.

Status

Engrossed

Passed its first chamber

Status date

Mar 3, 2026

254 days ago

Current chamber

House of Delegates

Session

2026 Regular Session