Business owners barred under D.C. law from receiving liquor licenses for establishments located within 400 feet of a District school, college or publicly run recreation center can once again apply for an exemption, according to an emergency bill passed Tuesday.
The bill, introduced by retiring D.C. Council Member Sharon Ambrose, D-Ward 6, sought to clarify a 2001 bill that “erroneously removed” the rule allowing exemptions to be granted, according to the bill.
The bill applies only to schools located within or near commercial zones. As a result of the 2001 error, several liquor license applications were left in limbo, according to the legislation.
The legislation has concerned some education leaders and church officials, who have raised fears about liquor stores or bars operating near schools. Officials said the legislation relates mostly to restaurants, many of which operate after school hours. The bill is especially important to gentrifying districts.
“This is not a repeal of the 400-foot rule relating to liquor licenses and schools,” said Council Member Jim Graham, D-Ward 1.
The bill goes next to Mayor Anthony Williams. Emergency bill are in effect for 90 days.
