The Business Council of New York State has launched a campaign to repeal what it describes as "Prohibition-era" alcohol laws, which it argues impede economic growth and consumer choice.
The "New Yorkers Cheers for Change" campaign, introduced on Sunday, targets the state's restrictive Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) laws, many of which date back to 1934, shortly after national Prohibition ended.
"New York has some of the most restrictive Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) laws the entire nation because they were created during the Prohibition-era," the organization stated on its website. "Current ABC laws impede economic growth, job opportunities, consumer choice, and New York’s own wine and distilled spirits industry."
The campaign follows the 2023 Commission to Study Reform of the Alcohol Beverage Control Law, initiated by Governor Kathy Hochul, which recommended updates to state regulations. Key among these are revisions to the state's 200 Foot Law and 500 Foot Law.
The 200 Foot Law prevents the State Liquor Authority from issuing liquor licenses to businesses located within 200 feet of a school or place of worship. The 500 Foot Law restricts license issuance for businesses situated within 500 feet of three or more already licensed establishments.
According to the Business Council, modernizing these laws could create over 4,000 new jobs and generate approximately $500 million in new economic activity. Andrew Rigie, executive director of the NYC Hospitality Alliance, noted that updating these regulations would remove barriers for restaurants, bars, and other hospitality businesses.
Paul Zuber, executive vice president of the Business Council of New York State, acknowledged Governor Hochul's efforts to modernize alcohol laws but emphasized that