SB98

Senate Bill 98 establishes a framework for third-party delivery of alcoholic beverages in Arkansas. It creates a new 'third-party delivery permit' for businesses that wish to deliver alcohol from licensed retailers to consumers, expanding upon previous law that restricted delivery solely to employees of the retailer. The bill specifies that delivery is permitted only to individuals 21 or older in areas where such sales are legal, including the retailer's home county and adjoining counties. Third-party permit holders must pay a $500 annual fee and ensure that their delivery drivers complete an approved training program focused on identifying intoxication, verifying valid identification, and understanding legal territories. The bill provides liability protections for retailers, stating that a retailer's responsibilities are fulfilled upon transferring possession of the alcohol to the third-party delivery agent. Additionally, it grants the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division authority to oversee, fine, or revoke permits for violations of these regulations.