CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Waive the first reading and pass the ordinance amending Sections 3-3-8 and 3-3-11:3 of the Naperville Municipal Code by removing the requirement that alcohol servers at local liquor licensed establishments take City conducted Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training (requires six positive votes)
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DEPARTMENT: Legal Department
SUBMITTED BY: Jennifer Bonner, Senior Assistant City Attorney
BOARD/COMMISSION REVIEW:
On April 8, 2025, the Liquor Commission unanimously recommended approval of a text amendment removing the City-conducted Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education requirement and adding a requirement to take a separate online course covering local liquor regulations.
BACKGROUND:
The Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training (“BASSET”) educates alcohol servers on best practices, including intervention techniques, ID checks, the impact of alcohol on the body, and relevant laws and penalties. Since 2018, the state requires completion of the training by bartenders, security at liquor licensed establishments, and alcoholic liquor sellers and servers. BASSET certification is valid for three (3) years after issuance.
In 2024, the Illinois Liquor Control Commission (“ILCC”) overhauled the BASSET program. Changes include course compliance checks for all BASSET trainers and a requirement that the four (4) hour course focus solely on the state’s rules, regulations and curriculum topics. ILCC previously allowed the City to include its rules and regulations are part of the four (4) hour course.
Due to these changes, the City reviewed its BASSET training requirements.
DISCUSSION:
Standardization of the BASSET program ensures attendees of any BASSET course will receive the same, consistent state-approved training. Removal of the City-conducted BASSET requirements will allow employees of local establishments more flexibility and options regarding BASSET completion.
To ensure employees of local establishments are educated on Naperville liquor laws and regulations, the proposed text amendment provides for creation of a separate online course, the City of Naperville’s Local Liquor Law Essentials. The proposed text amendment requires completion of the course within fifteen (15) days of employment and applies to anyone needing to complete BASSET.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Corresponding decrease in BASSET training fees.