(JUNEAU) - The House of Representatives unanimously passed House Bill 15 under reconsideration on Tuesday, February 22, 2005. HB 15, sponsored by Representative Kevin Meyer (R-Anchorage) creates a new liquor license for outdoor recreation lodges.

The Alcohol and Beverage Control Board regulates the purchase and sale of alcohol in Alaska through a licensing system. There are 18 different licenses currently in statute. None are appropriate for the lodges that provide outdoor recreation opportunities for residents and non-residents throughout Alaska.

"The lack of an appropriate license has forced lodge owners to operate outside the system Alaska has established to control the distribution and sale of alcoholic beverages," said Representative Meyer. "Operating without a valid liquor license endangers the public, licensees that sell to lodges, and exposes lodge owners to citation or prosecution under Alaska's alcoholic beverage control laws. HB 15 provides lodge owners with guidelines to follow if they or their guests choose to incorporate responsible consumption of alcohol with outdoor activities."

House Bill 15 now moves to the Senate for consideration.

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