Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner (D-Round Lake) announced that her bill allowing restaurants and bars to purchase prorated liquor licenses from the state Liquor Authority was signed into law (Ch. 423 of 2016).

“Seasonal tourism is a huge part of our economy here in Saratoga and Washington counties and outdoor bars are a great way to attract tourists in the warm summer months,” said Woerner. “However, the steep cost of an additional seasonal liquor license prevents many of our local establishments from taking full advantage. By prorating the licensure fees, we can lower operating costs for local businesses.”

In previous years, bars and restaurants were required to purchase an additional license from the Liquor Authority to operate an outdoor patio at the same cost as their year-round license – approximately $900. Under the new law, the license fee would be prorated based on the number of months the outdoor facility is in operation.