State Liquor Authority Highlights New State Law Allowing Bars/Restaurants to Buy From Local Liquor & Wine Stores

Since March 5, the State Liquor Authority (SLA) says bars, restaurants, and other “on-premises” establishments have been allowed to purchase limited quantities of wine or liquor from their local liquor and wine stores. According to the SLA, the new law brings common-sense reform that eases a burden on small businesses by allowing them to make additional purchases during emergencies while they also support neighborhood retailers throughout the state.

“When inventory runs low, this commonsense fix allows on-premises establishments to buy 6 bottles per week from a local liquor store and continue service. New York’s restaurant, tavern, and bar operators are our agency’s largest constituency. Collectively, they are the State’s largest number of small businesses and is the State’s largest employer. Their success is the State’s abundance.” Said New York State Liquor Authority Chair Lily M. Fan.

The SLA noted bars and restaurants will occasionally run out of a particular wine or spirit in the middle of a service. In the past, these businesses were not allowed to immediately replenish their bottles outside of arranging a delivery of the out-of-stock products from a wholesaler, leading to lost sales.

Under this new law, bars, restaurants and any establishment licensed for on-premises consumption can purchase up to six bottles total per week of wine or liquor from a liquor store or wine shop. Off-premises retail licensees are also limited to selling up to six bottles per week to bars and restaurants. Both on-premises and off-premises licensees must keep records of each transaction and make them available for inspection by the New York State Liquor Authority.

Additional details on the new law may be found HERE.