Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner (D-Round Lake) announced that her legislation allowing bars and restaurants to purchase prorated liquor licenses from the state Liquor Authority has gone into effect (Ch. 423 of 2016). The law helps businesses save money and will increase seasonal tourism.

“Saratoga and Washington counties have a long history of vibrant tourism,” said Woerner. “This new law lowers the cost of doing business so local bars and restaurants can take advantage of the summer months, giving our economy a valuable boost.”

The legislation, signed into law in November, allows for prorated liquor licenses to be purchased for the number of months an outdoor bar is in service. It amends previous standards that required restaurants and bars to purchase an additional license to operate an outdoor patio at the same cost as the year-round license – approximately $900. By lowering the cost of licensure, more businesses can afford to offer seasonal seating and take advantage of warm weather in summer months.