MontanaHB 49169th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)House

Revise alcohol laws relating to community care retirement facility licenses

Sponsored By: Katie Zolnikov (Republican)

Signed by Governor

AlcoholRevenue, StateSenior Citizens

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Alcohol delivery to residents' units

Beginning July 1, 2025, your retirement community can deliver beer, wine, or spirits to your living unit. You must be a current resident. The operator must tell the state before starting deliveries, but there is no application fee. Delivery staff must be at least 18 and complete responsible server training.

More on-campus alcohol spots at retirement communities

Beginning July 1, 2025, retirement communities can run more alcohol service spots on their campus. Sales can happen on patios, decks, and controlled lawn areas, and within pool areas that connect to a permanent service area. Outdoor spots must serve food and have a fence or clear boundary. A campus with two or more service buildings can use one separate, secure storage room with no on-site drinking. The law defines campus and dining areas so multiple drink stations are allowed, and at least one dining area must have a kitchen. All spots must be under the license holder’s control.

More licenses for retirement community operators

Beginning July 1, 2025, an operator can hold more than one retirement community alcohol license. Each license covers only one campus and must meet all rules. The application costs $500 and counts as the first annual fee; if denied, 75% is refunded. Annual renewals follow the state fee schedule. Licenses are nontransferable.

Server training and age rules for staff

Beginning July 1, 2025, anyone who sells, serves, or delivers alcohol at a retirement community must finish responsible server training within 60 days of hire. You must retake it every 3 years. Immediate supervisors must also be trained. Employers must keep records of completion. Staff who deliver alcohol must be at least 18.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Katie Zolnikov
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Jeremy Trebas
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 275 • No: 21

Senate vote • 4/10/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 45 • No: 3

Senate vote • 4/9/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 46 • No: 4

House vote • 3/6/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 93 • No: 6

House vote • 3/4/2025