3 More Liquor Laws That Keep Texas Weird
Texas lawmakers love to boast that the laws they pass are based on low-regulation government desires. However, when it comes to alcohol, many entrepreneurs and aficionados alike would be surprised at just how regulated our state’s alcohol laws are.
We’ve already looked at the three Texas alcohol laws you should know before becoming TABC certified, but here’s an even deeper glimpse behind the legal curtain. Check out these three liquor laws that can truly leave some who work under TABC regulations scratching their heads.
Your Bloodline Determines Your Liquor Permits
Liquor stores in Texas are allowed five permits. This cap explains why there are so few liquor store chains across the state, give or take a couple of the major players. What makes those larger retailers so special? Most likely their bloodline.
You see, although the law states that there is a five permit limit for liquor stores, there are two major league exceptions.
- If you owned a liquor store before May 1, 1949, you’re entitled to as many permits as you like!
- The consanguinity exception is for permit holders who have parents, children, or siblings in the liquor business as well. This exception allows these families to join forces and essentially apply for as many liquor permits as they can. This is how a couple of huge Texas liquor store chains came to be!
Blue Laws Still Reign Supreme
Texas is one of the last states to follow “blue laws” that tell alcohol vendors which days they can’t sell liquor. Although most blue laws were done away with in 1985, Texas held strong. Now, only restaurants, bars, grocery stores and convenience shops can sell alcohol on Sundays. As far as liquor stores go, you’d better make all the sales you can on Saturday, because Sunday is a no-go. Liquor stores in Texas are also limited to specific days they can’t be open. These include:
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year’s Day
Wholesale is a Cash Sale
Buying beer from a wholesale distributor means you can’t use credit. This law was created during Prohibition to ensure that distributors have the cash on-hand to pay their taxes when they are due. Although “cash” sale isn’t literal in modern times, the alcohol your establishment purchases from a wholesaler must be paid for before or at the time of delivery.
Stay Up-to-Speed on All Alcohol Laws With TABC On The Fly
There are several other laws we didn’t cover in this post because they are currently being disputed in state courts. The point is, even the oldest laws can change, and as a server or supplier in the alcohol service industry, you need to be in the know of any changes at all times.
The online course TABC On The Fly provides to our clients is updated on all TABC regulations and state liquor laws. If you still need to run your business or work your shift but need to get TABC certified, go with our “at your own pace” course that costs less than some premium drinks on a night out. Register online with us today to get your certification process started!
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