Tacoma Leaders Celebrate Passage of Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1480

Tacoma's Mayor Victoria Woodards and Council Member Robert Thoms commend the Washington State Legislature for passing Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1480, which extends the temporary alcohol sales privileges for local restaurants and bars for an additional two years. This legislation is particularly crucial for businesses that have struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing them to sell alcoholic beverages for curbside pickup and delivery. The initiative originated in Tacoma, where city officials recognized that such flexibility could help local businesses survive and recover from significant losses. The collaboration with the Liquor and Cannabis Control Board has already proven beneficial, as temporary rules were enacted last year to support the community. As the legislation awaits Governor Jay Inslee's signature, local leaders express hope that the next two years will provide valuable data to inform future policies.

The leaders emphasize the importance of local businesses in contributing to the character and economy of Tacoma. They plan to work closely with the Liquor and Cannabis Control Board to study the impacts of these rules and seek a permanent solution. This proactive approach aims to strike a balance between ensuring safe alcohol service and supporting economic growth in the community.