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1996 SESSION

961696188
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 217
Offered January 22, 1996
Requesting the State Crime Commission to study the feasibility of increasing local government control of the sale of alcoholic beverages.
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Patrons-- Cunningham, Hall and McEachin; Senators: Lambert and Marsh
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Referred to Committee on Rules
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WHEREAS, several local governments have identified reducing crime as a top priority in their strategic plans; and

WHEREAS, poor management of establishments selling alcoholic beverages, and disregard for the communities they serve, often results in illegal, undesirable and rowdy behavior; and

WHEREAS, there is a high level of frustration among state residents and local governments over the lack of control that local governments have over establishments selling alcohol in their communities; and

WHEREAS, numerous times residents have mounted significant campaigns before the ABC Board to oppose licenses, only to have an establishment selling alcohol placed right in their backyard; and

WHEREAS, current laws and regulations do not provide the level of control over these establishments desired by the citizens of the Commonwealth; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the State Crime Commission, in conjunction with the ABC Board, is requested to study the feasibility and cost savings of stronger local government control of the sale of alcoholic beverages through increased local authority, and to study the feasibility and effect of more stringent regulations on the sale of alcoholic beverages in the Commonwealth.

The Division of Legislative Services shall provide staff support for the study. All agencies of the Commonwealth shall provide assistance to the Commission and Board, upon request.

The Commission and Board shall complete their work in time to submit their findings and recommendations to the Governor and the 1997 Session of the General Assembly as provided in the procedures of the Division of Legislative Automated Systems for processing legislative documents.

Implementation of this resolution is subject to subsequent approval and certification by the Joint Rules Committee. The Committee may withhold expenditures or delay the period for the conduct of the study.