The BC Government’s Liquor Policy Review is in its final stages, wrapping up this week. The public has been given ample opportunity to comment on how these laws should be updated. The submissions are varied and substantial. There are many different opinions on a myriad of issues as the public and various stakeholders rejoice in the opportunity to have their voices heard in the necessary modernizing of these outdated laws. You can see the submissions list here engage.gov.bc.ca/liquorpolicyreview/stakeholder-positions/
A repeated and resounding recommendation in the submissions relates to the desire to improve the current framework for the issuance of liquor licenses. The current framework is complex and lengthy. Clarity and accessibility is much needed. Further reform is also needed to update the current convoluted special-occasion licensing system.
Further submissions relate to allowing restaurant chains more control over their inventory. Stakeholders argue that the new liquor laws should allow restaurant chains to transfer their liquor between their own locations, and further allow restaurants to be flexible on the pricing of their liquor products when they are served during the day.
More information can be found at engage.gov.bc.ca/liquorpolicyreview/
Vanessa DeDominicis practices in the area of business law. As a Registered Trade-mark Agent with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office and the United States Patent and Trade-mark Office, her business law practice has a specific focus on intellectual property law, including filing Canadian and US trade-mark applications and advising clients on infringement issues. You can contact Vanessa on 250-869-1140 or [email protected] to discuss the registration of your trade name as a trade-mark. This information applies as a general rule ONLY and may change depending upon the specific circumstances of your own situation. You should consult a lawyer before acting on any of this information.