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Alaska Legislature Expands Who Can Serve Alcohol in Licensed Establishments
JUNEAU, AK – On Wednesday, the Alaska House passed Senate Bill 15, sponsored by Senator Kelly Merrick, R-Eagle River, by a vote of 32-8. The bill amends current statutes to promote responsible alcohol service, increase employment opportunities, and bring more public safety awareness to consumers. Last year, a similar bill, House Bill 189, passed the legislature after the midnight deadline on the last day of the legislative session and ultimately received a veto from the Governor.
Senate Bill 15 authorizes individuals employed in the hospitality industry who are 18 to 20 years old to serve alcohol in licensed establishments, including restaurants, breweries, wineries, distilleries, hotels, motels, and large resorts. Employers who choose to hire staff from this age group must ensure supervision to prevent underage alcohol consumption.
"This is a practical update to our alcohol regulations that balances public safety with the hiring needs of Alaska businesses," said Sen. Merrick. "Updating these statutes will create more job opportunities for young Alaskans while ensuring responsible alcohol service in our communities."
Senate Bill 15 also extends alcohol service hours in theaters to allow more flexibility during events, requires improved warning signs in places that serve alcohol to better inform the public about the risks associated with drinking, and expands access for individuals aged 16 and older to enter restaurants and other licensed premises for dining.
"The passage of Alaska Senate Bill 15, allowing 18, 19, and 20 year olds to serve beer and wine in restaurants, marks a huge step forward for Alaska’s restaurant industry, small businesses, and the young Alaskans eager to enter the workforce. This commonsense legislation helps address the chronic labor shortages that hit restaurants hardest during the summer months, when tourism peaks but staffing remains a constant struggle. Now, instead of turning away eager and qualified young people, restaurants can finally give them the opportunity to work, earn money for college or trade school, and gain valuable experience in the hospitality industry. This bill is a game-changer for Corks & Hops, and I want to give a huge thank you to Senator Merrick for her leadership. She committed to me that this would be first on her agenda—and she delivered, wasting no time in getting this passed. Her support of small businesses and working Alaskans is deeply appreciated. This is a win for our industry, our youth, and Alaska’s economy," said Jason Hemphill, Owner of Corks & Hops, Eagle River.
Today, the Alaska Senate unanimously concurred with the House changes. Senate Bill 15 now heads to the Governor for consideration.
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