Three bills introduced this legislative session by 14th District Sen. Curtis King were signed into law today by Gov. Jay Inslee.
One of the proposals, Senate Bill 5909, authorizes licensed liquor manufacturers to contract with licensed bottlers to have alcoholic beverages placed in cans, bottles and bags, and to mix products before packaging. King sponsored the proposal at the request of a Yakima bottling company. The Senate and House unanimously approved it.
“In working with the Liquor and Cannabis Board, we were able to craft a bill that will help protect jobs and create new ones,” said King, R-Yakima.
The two other King-sponsored measures that the governor approved are Substitute Senate Bill 5394 and Substitute Senate Bill 5471.
SSB 5394 allows liquor manufacturers and distributors to use websites or social media accounts to share promotional information about events featuring their products that will be held at a retailer’s location or a licensed special-occasion event. The Senate passed the bill 45-2, and the House approved it 90-6.
“The current state law on this issue was confusing, so this bill clarifies what is allowed at special events,” said King. “It will allow breweries and wineries to better support nonprofit charitable events where they are serving their products.”
SSB 5471 changes the validity of a temporary elevator mechanic license from 30 days to one year, and increases the number of members on the Elevator Safety Advisory Committee from seven to nine. It received unanimous approval by the Senate and House.
The 105-day legislative session is scheduled to adjourn Sunday.