LIQUOR COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
title
Consider a text amendment addressing the fee and fine structure applicable to alcoholic liquor and tobacco/alternative nicotine product violations
body
DEPARTMENT: Legal Department
SUBMITTED BY: Jennifer Bonner, Senior Assistant City Attorney
BACKGROUND:
At the February 5, 2026 Liquor Commission meeting, staff was directed to review and recommend updates to the City’s existing fine structure for alcoholic liquor and tobacco/alternative nicotine product violations issued against licensees. The proposed text amendment introduces greater discretion in assessing fines for tobacco-related violations by establishing a fine range of $1,000 to $10,000 per violation, while preserving the ability to impose suspension, revocation, or non-renewal of a license. Replacing the current fine chart with a discretionary range allows consideration of all relevant factors, including a licensee’s disciplinary history and any remedial measures taken. For alcoholic liquor violations, a fine structure consistent with state law is included. The amendment also increases the minimum fine for individuals to $200 and removes duplicative fine language to improve clarity and consistency. Additional revisions clarify the distinction between penalties imposed on licenses versus individual clerks and narrow the scope of state commission review of local disciplinary decisions. Although not included in the proposed revisions, the Commission may also wish to consider increasing the annual fee for tobacco and cigarette dealer licenses to $300, reflecting fee adjustments adopted in other municipalities.