House Bill 2035, introduced in Washington on March 9, 2025, aims to amend existing regulations surrounding catering licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages at events. The bill proposes a structured fee system for caterers, establishing an annual fee of $300 for beer licenses, $300 for wine licenses, and $600 for a combination beer and wine license.

One of the key provisions of the bill is the introduction of a fee waiver for licenses that expire during a specified 12-month period, beginning two months after February 28, 2021. This waiver is applicable to individuals who were previously licensed within the year prior to the waiver period. However, the bill specifies that those who had their licenses suspended for health and safety violations related to COVID-19 guidelines or who received citations for violating emergency proclamations are ineligible for this waiver.

The bill has sparked discussions among stakeholders, particularly regarding the implications of the fee structure and the waiver provisions. Supporters argue that the fee adjustments could provide relief to caterers recovering from the pandemic's economic impact, while opponents express concerns about the potential for increased regulatory burdens on small businesses.

Economically, the bill could have significant implications for the catering industry, which has faced challenges due to the pandemic. By easing financial pressures through fee waivers, the legislation may help stabilize businesses and promote growth in the sector.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its impact on the catering industry and the broader economic landscape will be closely monitored. The next steps will involve further debates and potential amendments as lawmakers consider the feedback from various stakeholders.