Common Council says no to new liquor license restrictions

Since the original introduction in June 2024 and through its various iterations, the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors remained opposed to the proposed changes to Madison General Ordinances that would impose new citywide regulations and restrictions on alcohol licensing.

Last week, after more than a year of sustained Chamber advocacy, the Madison Common Council voted 16-4 to reject the measure that would have imposed sweeping restrictions on Class A and Class B liquor licenses across the city.

It was the Chamber’s position that addressing chronic alcohol use is a worthwhile and understandable objective, but a citywide policy that does not consider unique neighborhood characteristics and needs is an ill-advised approach. Additionally, the proposal was and has always been a solution in search of a problem with unintended yet significant consequences for small businesses and entrepreneurs of color, particularly those who already face language barriers.

Perhaps the most important reason for our opposition was that the Alcohol Licensing Review Committee (ALRC) already has authority and a proven track record of reviewing alcohol licenses before and after problems arise. This legislation takes an unwarranted and pessimistic view of the committee’s charge, ability and oversight.

The proposal would have limited opportunity, added red tape and bypassed the city’s existing Alcohol License Review Committee process.

Thanks to the advocacy of our coalition partners and the leadership of key alders, this ordinance change did not move forward.