As a restaurant owner in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, I have seen firsthand the impact that an inability to sell alcohol can have on a business. Owning a popular restaurant with approximately 70 seats, primarily serving diners on the premises, I continually struggle to compete with other establishments that offer alcohol to their customers.

In New Jersey, the regulations around alcohol sales create an uneven playing field. This affects not only my restaurant but countless others that are unable to provide this service despite having a fully functional dining environment. States like California and New York have progressive alcohol licensing policies that consider the business size and setup, allowing a broader range of restaurants to include alcohol sales with their offerings. Such policies have not only helped the businesses thrive but have also boosted local economies.

The current system in New Jersey restricts alcohol licenses, making them both scarce and prohibitively expensive. A typical liquor license can cost up to several hundred thousand dollars, a figure that is unattainable for many small to medium-sized establishments. Allowing restaurants with a minimum number of seats the ability to sell alcohol for on-premise consumption can significantly level the playing field.

Empirical studies demonstrate that restaurants offering alcohol service experience increased customer satisfaction and longer dining durations, directly contributing to higher sales revenue. Furthermore, this could lead to more jobs within the community, an increase in tourism, and greater tax revenue for the state.

With these changes, we aim to foster a more robust local dining scene, increase competitiveness, and provide consumers with a richer dining experience. We call upon the New Jersey state legislature to consider an amendment to the current licensing system, enabling more dining establishments to sell alcohol.

Please sign this petition to support local businesses and encourage fair competition in New Jersey’s restaurant industry.