Senate passes bill to increase liquor licenses for restaurants

SALT LAKE CITY — The Senate overwhelmingly passed a bill 23-1 Friday that would increase the number of restaurants that could serve alcohol.

SB314, sponsored by Sen. John Valentine, R-Orem, would allow 40 additional restaurants to obtain one of the state's limited liquor licenses. The licenses available would be 25 limited-service for beer and wine only and 15 full-service.

Valentine has said the changes are not designed to encourage drinking, but to ensure liquor is consumed with food, which he said reduces intake. The legislation would step up enforcement in correspondence with the new permits. 

The bill, which now moves to the House for its consideration, sets uniform serving hours starting at 10 a.m. for taverns and 11:30 a.m. for restaurants, as well as creates a reception center license.

The bill also allows hotel room service to provide single drinks and allows those who serve alcohol to take a required training course online. 

— Amanda Verzello