On March 25, 2025, Washington House Bill 2035 was introduced, aiming to amend existing regulations surrounding catering licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages. The bill seeks to address the evolving landscape of event catering, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

One of the primary provisions of House Bill 2035 is the establishment of a caterer's license that allows the sale of spirits, beer, and wine at events. This license is designed for caterers serving at locations they own, lease, or operate, as well as events sponsored by organizations defined under existing law. Notably, the bill includes a waiver of the sponsorship requirement for private events limited to members or invited guests, thereby broadening the scope of who can host catered events with alcohol service.

The bill also proposes a fee structure for these licenses, setting the annual fee at $300 for beer, $300 for wine, and $600 for a combination license. This adjustment reflects a slight increase from previous fees, which were set at $200 for beer and wine licenses. The increase aims to support regulatory oversight and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.

A significant aspect of the bill is the provision for a fee waiver during a specified 12-month period for licenses expiring during that time. However, this waiver does not apply to licensees who have faced suspensions or citations related to health and safety violations during the pandemic. This clause has sparked debate among stakeholders, with some arguing it may disproportionately affect businesses that struggled during the pandemic while others believe it is necessary to uphold public safety standards.

The introduction of House Bill 2035 has generated discussions among lawmakers, industry representatives, and public health advocates. Proponents argue that the bill will provide much-needed support to the catering industry, which has faced significant challenges due to pandemic-related restrictions. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential for increased fees and the implications of the waiver restrictions on businesses that are still recovering.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications could have lasting effects on the catering industry in Washington. If passed, it may lead to increased compliance costs for caterers but also provide a framework for more flexible event hosting in a post-pandemic environment. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the bill's developments, anticipating further amendments and discussions as it moves forward.