SB472

Senate Bill 472 allows Arkansas state parks to sell or serve alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption without obtaining a permit from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division. Instead of a traditional permit, state parks must seek annual approval from the Secretary of the Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. The bill authorizes state parks to either manage these sales directly or allow third-party vendors to do so. These sales must occur during the normal operating hours of park facilities, such as restaurants or outdoor events. While exempt from certain standard permitting regulations, state parks must still comply with division rules, purchase inventory from licensed wholesalers, and remain subject to monitoring and enforcement by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division. The state park or the third-party vendor remains legally liable for the service of alcohol under these provisions.