New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A10525

Introduced
3/6/26  
Refer
3/6/26  
Report Pass
4/21/26  
Refer
4/21/26  
Report Pass
4/28/26  
Engrossed
5/4/26  

Caption

Provides an exemption for a certain parcel of land in Manhattan from selling alcohol within a certain distance from a church; provides for the repeal of certain provisions upon expiration thereof.

Impact

This change is expected to have a profound effect on local business operations within Manhattan, where the density of churches and religious institutions is substantial. Proponents argue that it opens up new opportunities for retail businesses and enhances the local economy by expanding the types of establishments that can operate in close proximity to places of worship. Critics, however, may raise concerns regarding the potential for increased noise and disturbances in areas traditionally quiet, particularly during religious services. Furthermore, the bill's narrow focus on a specific geographic area raises questions about equitable treatment of similar businesses statewide, which could lead to contention over local zoning and property rights.

Summary

Bill A10525 proposes an amendment to the alcoholic beverage control law that would permit the sale of alcohol within a certain distance of religious institutions, specifically within two hundred feet of churches, synagogues, and other places of worship, but only in Manhattan. This law is targeted to allow retail establishments that primarily sell food and beverages for on-premises consumption to obtain a retail license, which had previously been prohibited due to proximity laws designed to protect these institutions from the influences of alcohol sales near their locations. A specific parcel of land at 1003 Second Avenue has been identified under this bill, changing its licensing fate significantly. The bill includes provisions that would lead to the expiry of the exemption upon the sale or transfer of the property unless a new leasehold is immediately acquired by the licensee for continued operations.

Contention

Notably, the bill's provision to allow exceptions for specific properties raises ethical questions about favoritism and whether such legislation benefits certain business interests over the common good. The potential repeal of this exemption upon transfer of property ownership may create uncertainty for businesses eager to capitalize on the new licensing opportunities. Stakeholders in the community, including religious leaders and neighborhood associations, may voice their opposition or support based on how they perceive the impact of increased alcohol sales on their congregants and community atmosphere.

Companion Bills

NY S09543

Same As Provides an exemption for a certain parcel of land in Manhattan from selling alcohol within a certain distance from a church; provides for the repeal of certain provisions upon expiration thereof.

Previously Filed As

NY S09543

Provides an exemption for a certain parcel of land in Manhattan from selling alcohol within a certain distance from a church; provides for the repeal of certain provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY A08796

Provides an exemption for certain parcels of land from the licensing restrictions prohibiting manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of alcoholic beverages from sharing an interest in a licensed premises or to sell at retail for consumption on the premises; provides for the repeal of certain provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY S10068

Provides an exemption for certain parcels of land from the licensing restrictions prohibiting manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of alcoholic beverages from sharing an interest in a licensed premises or to sell at retail for consumption on the premises; provides for the repeal of certain provisions upon expiration thereof.

NY S08690

Exempts certain property from the prohibition of alcohol sales within a certain distance from a church for a certain premises located in the county of New York.

NY S07683

Exempts certain property from the prohibition of alcohol sales within a certain distance from a church for a certain premises located in the county of Ontario.

NY A08199

Exempts certain property from the prohibition of alcohol sales within a certain distance from a church for a certain premises located in the county of Ontario.

NY A08184

Relates to an exemption from the prohibition of alcohol sales within a certain distance from a church, for a certain property located in the village of Hammondsport, county of Steuben.

NY S07711

Relates to an exemption from the prohibition of alcohol sales within a certain distance from a church, for a certain property located in the village of Hammondsport, county of Steuben.

NY S09317

Exempts certain parcels of land from licensing restrictions prohibiting manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of alcoholic beverages from sharing an interest in a licensed premises and from selling at retail for consumption off the premises.

NY A10500

Exempts certain parcels of land from licensing restrictions prohibiting manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of alcoholic beverages from sharing an interest in a licensed premises and from selling at retail for consumption on the premises.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.