Effort Underway to Extend the Buffer Zone Between Schools and Liquor Stores

The Alaska House of Representatives signed off on legislation Monday that would extend the buffer zone between schools and businesses that sell alcohol. Current law prohibits alcohol sales within 200 feet of schools and churches. House Bill 336 seeks to extend that buffer zone to 400-feet. Representative Geran Tarr put the bill forward in response to a situation that exist at a middle school in Anchorage where kids have to maneuver around intoxicated individuals hanging around a nearby liquor store. The bill includes language grandfathering in establishments licensed before House Bill 336 would take effect. The bill has been referred to the Alaska Senate for consideration. The bill has been given two committee referrals in the Senate so it’s unclear if there is enough time for the Senate to consider the bill before the close of the session this upcoming weekend.