New Hampshire is known for its high volume of alcohol sales, thanks in part to the low-tax liquor stores along our state borders. Being labeled as the number one state for booze may not be a point of pride for Granite Staters, but it’s an important part of our state’s economy: taxes on liquor and beer provide 5% of unrestricted revenue in the state budget. This year lawmakers are working on several bills that aim to boost alcohol sales – and hopefully boost our bottom line.
Alcohol sales – and taxes – are trending down
Alcohol sales are trending downward, worldwide. Some of that decline is likely due to inflation, with consumers spending their limited funds on essentials such as food and housing instead of alcohol. Several polls and studies also indicate that Gen Z is drinking much less than previous generations.
The decline in drinking has a particular impact in New Hampshire, where highway liquor stores help fill state coffers. As of April 2025, annual revenue from liquor sales is down about 10% compared to the previous year.
The state hardly wants to promote excessive drinking, but some lawmakers are interested in allowing new ways to serve alcohol. Ideally this will stimulate business and give an indirect boost to liquor sales. Here’s a rundown of some of the innovative alcohol laws the state Legislature is likely to pass this year.
“Taverns” without food sales
HB 276 would create a “tavern” license for restaurants to sell beverages, wine, and liquor but no food. As Sen. Dan Innis (R-Bradford) said in a public hearing, until now, New Hampshire has required food service to “help soak up alcohol a little.” Towns would have the power to decide whether or not to allow taverns.
There’s no requirement for a restaurant customer to purchase food with their drink, of course, so supporters of HB 276 argue this won’t be a big change from current liquor licensing. However, safety advocates are leery of encouraging drinking without any food or other clear reason for gathering.
HB 276 passed the House and looked to have strong support in the Senate, but right now the bill is on the table. It’s unclear if the Senate will take it back up for a vote this year.
Outdoor “social districts”
HB 467 would allow cities and towns to approve "social districts," public outdoor areas where a person may consume alcoholic beverages. Drinkers could patronize restaurants and other businesses in the area while carrying their beverage in a specially marked container.
Supporters point to the tourism success of Savannah, Georgia, which allows open containers in its historic district. Opponents are concerned about the negative impact public drinking may have on children and families.
HB 467 passed the House and Senate is headed to Gov. Ayotte for a signature or veto.
Self-service alcohol
SB 79 allows self-service beer, cider, or wine from an automated system inside a restaurant or bar. Sen. Tim Lang (R-Sanbornton) was inspired to sponsor the bill after using an RFID bracelet to self-pour alcohol in Wisconsin. The bracelet had a quantity limit that only allowed so many servings.
The Liquor Commission testified they already allow this in their rulemaking, so SB 79 would simply put the practice into state law. That makes the bill less controversial, although some legislators expressed concern about drinkers abusing the system to get around limits. If self-service alcohol allows fewer human servers per customer, it may also be harder for those employees to monitor drinkers.
One-day liquor licenses
SB 87 would allow businesses to receive a one-day liquor license for special events. A similar license already exists for nonprofits. For example, an art gallery might offer wine at the opening of an exhibition.
As introduced, SB 87 would also allow barber shops, salons, and spas to get a permanent liquor license. Sen. David Watters (D-Dover), the prime sponsor of SB 87, testified that the second part of the bill is in response to some barber shops, salons, and spas that offer free alcohol, which is illegal. The Liquor Commission currently turns a blind eye but would like a way to regulate these businesses.
This second part of the bill got some pushback in the House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee. For example, there was concern about unaccompanied minors – such as teenagers – being allowed in salons and spas that serve alcohol.
Share your views on booze bills
Do you think New Hampshire should allow more innovative ways to serve booze?
SB 79 and SB 87 are both still in the House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee, waiting for a vote. If you have an opinion on either of those bills, reach out to your state representative.
You can find out who represents you and how to contact them at citizenscount.org/elected-officials.
Citizens Count is a nonprofit serving the New Hampshire community by providing objective information about issues, elected officials, bills, elections, and candidates. These articles are being shared with partners in The Granite State News Collaborative. For more information visit collaborativenh.org.