RESOLUTION NO. RS2014-1014

A resolution opposing state legislation that would enable the sale of beer and other alcoholic beverages in “to-go” containers.

WHEREAS, state and local laws currently restrict patrons of bars and restaurants from carrying beer or other alcoholic beverages in an open container off the premises of the establishment where the beverage is purchased; and

WHEREAS, legislation is currently pending in the Tennessee General Assembly that would enable establishments that are licensed to sell beer or alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption within the downtown Nashville central business improvement district to sell beer and alcoholic beverages in "to-go" containers that may be taken anywhere within the central business improvement district; and

WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Government has spent close to $1 billion in the downtown area in recent years in an effort to promote and enhance tourism, and to make our central business improvement district a safe place for residents and visitors; and

WHEREAS, a number of downtown Nashville bar owners, merchants, and hotel operators have expressed concerns regarding the negative effects “to-go” cups would have on our downtown area, including increased public intoxication, underage drinking, and lost tax revenue; and

WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council is of the opinion that allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages in “to-go” cups in the downtown Nashville area would endanger the public safety and ultimately harm downtown businesses.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. The Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as opposing HB2199/SB1739, and any other state legislation that would enable the sale of beer and other alcoholic beverages in “to-go” containers.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a copy of this Resolution to the members of the Senate State and Local Government Committee, the members of the House State Government Subcommittee, and to each member of the Davidson County Delegation to the Tennessee General Assembly.

Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Emily Evans, Steve Glover, Edith Taylor Langster, Sheri Weiner, Sandra Moore, Tony Tenpenny, Carter Todd, Davette Blalock, Burkley Allen, Jacobia Dowell, Robert Duvall, Karen Bennett, Anthony Davis, Brady Banks, Buddy Baker, Doug Pardue, Jason Potts, Frank Harrison, Josh Stites, Scott Davis, Diane Neighbors, Charlie Tygard, Walter Hunt, Phil Claiborne, Duane Dominy, Tim Garrett

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY
Referred to:	Rules & Confirmations Committee Convention & Tourism Committee
Introduced:	March 4, 2014
Adopted:	March 4, 2014 - Roll Call Vote
Approved:	March 5, 2014
By: