New York: No Alcohol In Cinemas
A plan to permit cinemas in New York state to seek a license to serve alcohol seems to be stalled. Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo pursued the plan, claiming allowing theaters to serve alcohol would be a boon to both theaters and the state’s burgeoning craft beverage industry. For years, Gov. Cuomo has been pursuing alcohol-industry friendly moves to make alcohol even more available in New York state, despite the evidence of alcohol harm being linked to greater availability.
Opposition to alcohol in cinemas
State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie publicly declared he opposes the idea on safety grounds. Heastie’s comments all but ensure the proposal won’t pass this year.
If a theater wants to serve alcohol under current law, they must operate a full kitchen or obtain a tavern license allowing them to serve alcohol in the lobby only.