Jan 22

Jan 22 NC Leaders work with ABC Commission to get permit issue resolved

Governor Cooper issued a mandate on March 16, 2020, that forced bars to shut down due to the global pandemic. On January 4, 2021, the ABC Commission revoked the status of 120 bar permits across the state. Yearly permit renewals were due by April 1. As not all bars were able to renew their permits in time, the North Carolina General Assembly passed a bill that allowed a 60-day renewal permit.

“We are fighting to be treated as the other 6000 ABC permit holders able to operate indoors,” said Jason Ruth, owner of Timyz Tavern and NC Bar Owners Association.

The ABC Commission did not send out any communication to the bar owners that their permit was in jeopardy. The initial reports and on social media made it look as though it was another example of bars being singled out by the pandemic mandates.

“The ABC Commission’s decision to revoke permits without any warning or prior notice is irresponsible and inexcusable. Many of these bars have never reopened due to the Governor’s executive orders and they still had their permits canceled,” said Rep. John Bell (R-Wayne, Johnston, Greene).

The impacted bars were moved into an inactive state. When those bars are ready and able to reopen, they will not have to file for a new ABC permit.

“We have had business owners have their ability to earn a living taken from them. The legislative intent was to provide some relief from fees charged by the state,” said NC Sen. Jim Perry (R-Lenoir, Wayne). “This is impacting families, and it is not right. The ABC Commission has been very responsive to Chairman Moffitt, and they are working to find an immediate solution.”

The ABC Commission does not wish to place further burdens on bars impacted by the pandemic mandates and stressed that it was their hope to be a resource to the bars when they can open and make the process as seamless as possible.

“Permits for businesses that were not currently operating and had not paid for the renewals for this year were put in an inactive status,” said ABC Commission Public Affairs Director Jeff Strickland.

Legislative leaders have been working with Representative Tim Moffitt, who chairs the ABC Committee in the House. Chairman Moffitt has been in communication with the ABC Commission and they are working together to resolve the situation.

“I along with Senator Jim Perry have spoken with the House ABC Committee Chair Tim Moffitt and he is working on legislation to address the issue and provide relief for bar owners. This will most likely be addressed when the legislature reconvenes next week,” said Bell.