Massachusetts House Bill H4196

Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/25
• Refer: 3/27/25
• Refer: 6/2/25

Caption

For all licensees for beer to be drunk on the premises must list the alcohol by volume for each beer selection on the menu

Impact

The implementation of Bill H4196 would amend Chapter 138 of the Alcoholic Liquors statute in Massachusetts. This change would require immediate compliance from all licensed establishments, which may need to adjust their menus and possibly retrain staff on the new labeling requirements. By standardizing the presentation of alcohol content, the bill aims to enhance public safety and consumer protection, particularly for individuals monitoring their alcohol intake for health or legal reasons.

Summary

House Bill 4196 seeks to enhance consumer awareness by mandating that all licensees serving beer on the premises must clearly list the alcohol by volume (ABV) for each beer selection on their menus. Introduced by Representative Colleen M. Garry, the bill aims to provide consumers with essential information regarding the alcoholic strength of beverages, thereby promoting informed decision-making. This regulation primarily targets establishments that serve beer, such as bars and restaurants, ensuring transparency in their offerings.

Contention

While the bill is generally seen as beneficial for consumers, it may face pushback from some business owners who see the regulation as an additional burden. Critics could argue that the requirement to label ABV explicitly might lead to increased costs related to menu updates and potential regulatory compliance. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding how rigorously the new rule will be enforced and whether it may contribute to a more significant regulatory burden overall. The balance between consumer protection and business flexibility is likely to be a key point of discussion among legislators.