Minnesota Lawmakers Consider Expanding Social Districts
Currently, only three Minnesota cities have been authorized to establish such districts.
On March 13, the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee heard SF 1182, (Sen. Aric Putnam, DFL-Saint Cloud), which would allow cities to issue social district licenses to any on-sale liquor license holders.
Social districts, which are common across the county, permit communities to designate public areas where alcohol can be carried and consumed — often in conjunction with events such as art shows, live music, and other activities. Currently, only three Minnesota cities (Anoka, Shakopee, and Stillwater) have been authorized to establish such districts.
The bill outlines various requirements for cities and the social district entities, addressing safety measures, public information, and regulatory processes. While the bill received strong support, some lawmakers questioned whether broad authorization is the best approach. An alternative suggestion was to require cities to seek legislative approval on a case-by-case basis.
The House companion, HF 1372, sponsored by Rep. Bernie Perryman (R-St. Augusta), was heard in the House Commerce Finance and Policy Committee on March 6. During the hearing, Anoka Mayor Phil Rice shared positive feedback on the success of the Downtown Anoka Social District. Rep. Zack Stephenson (DFL-Coon Rapids), who represents the area, shared that the district has become a great success for their community but recommended delaying state-wide authorization until after a legislatively mandated report is completed at the end of the 2025.
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