Summaries of new laws enacted in 2025 related to cannabis, alcohol, tobacco and vapor products are now available. 2025 Legislative Fact Sheets Bill Number: HB 1341 Modifying the medical cannabis authorization database to verify excise tax exemptions Bill Number: HB 1515 Modernizing the regulation of alcohol service in public spaces Bill Number: HB 1602 Addressing food […]
On July 27, 2025, House Bill 1698 goes into effect, changing the rules on who needs to get a MAST permit. Before the updated law, WAC 314-17-015 required MAST permits for anyone who serves, mixes, sells, and supervises the sale of alcohol at a licensed retail location. As of July 27, 2025 MAST permits will […]
Washington State is one of the few states in the United States that requires mandatory alcohol server training (MAST) for those who work as servers and bartenders. The objective of this requirement is to ensure that those who are serving alcohol in licensed establishments receive proper training on the responsible service of alcohol, including the […]
In 2023, the legislature allowed for the delivery and takeout of alcohol by on-premises licensees as well as the delivery of growlers by off-premises licensees and manufacturers. Businesses were able to request a temporary endorsement to allow for these activities. Delivery of alcohol under these endorsements are allowed through Jul. 1, 2025. With the expiration […]
The decision not to serve a customer who is apparently under the influence could not only save a liquor license, but it could also save someone’s life. Knowing the signs of intoxication is a must for licensees and their employees. It is illegal to serve or sell alcohol to anyone who appears to be intoxicated […]
Indoor areas restricted to minors may use demarcations or 42-inch barriers between dedicated dining areas and areas classified as off-limits to minors. Demarcations must be at least six inches wide and no more than 10 feet apart and cannot include tape, paint, or stickers. Examples of allowable demarcations include: Visibly different and contrasting flooring Steps […]
Mar. 12 at 5 p.m. was the last day for the Washington State Legislature to consider bills in their house of origin. Prior to this cutoff, LCB’s agency request legislation bill, House Bill 1698, passed the house with 95 yeas, 0 nays, 0 absent, and 3 excused. In short, HB 1698, an act relating to […]
Jan 22, 2025 By Sarah Okey, PhD, LCB Research Manager Washington State Patrol (WSP) provides LCB with data on impaired driving from their Breath Test Program. The LCB uses this information to educate license holders about potential over service. This is particularly helpful when a business has been named as the location of the last […]
A Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) permit is required for any person who: Serves, mixes, sells, or supervises the sale of alcohol at an on-premises licensed location. Conducts alcohol tastings at other licensed locations (grocery stores, beer and wine specialty shops, wineries, breweries, distilleries) and farmers markets. Fills growlers or containers at grocery stores. When […]
Recognizing the signs of intoxication can be challenging but is necessary for both safer communities and for your customers. When in doubt, don’t serve alcohol. The decision not to serve a customer who is apparently under the influence could not only save a liquor license, but it could also save someone’s life. Knowing the signs of […]