Can someone explain to me this insanity?

As a future businessperson, I had chance to plug through the VABC license types and costs page.

Aside from the On and Off premises banter (which really stretches the concept of having a business in the first place), it's interesting to note that there is no section for "bar", "pub", or similar.

Way to stifle the business market, Virginia.

As I've said before, the biggest asset any neighborhood has is its community bar.

From the NYS ABC page: "ON-PREMISES LIQUOR:
Generally considered to be the standard "bar" license. Allows
on-premises consumption of liquor, wine and beer and also allows for
sale of beer (only) for off-premises consumption. Food, such as soups
and sandwiches, MUST be served."

From the VABC page: Well, actually there is no direct comparison to the NYS one. There are something like 38 different kinds of licenses one can apply for, as compared to NYS' 21. But the only real difference is the one "standard 'bar' license."


Allright - someone, anyone - give me a reason why the state of Virginia does not have a simple, standard bar license.

Also in the list of "bad business" pratices enforced by the VABC, the
"no buybacks" rule. Which I absolutely agree with. Why would you ever
want to reward your loyal customers? Why leave it up to the owner of the establishment wether or not they want to swallow the cost of the drink (plus tax) to show some love to a regular? Then again, why allow competition to raise revenue tax-wise when the state can lock down the entire bottled liquor racket for themselves?

I know, there I go asking the stupid questions again. Of course, competition which could only increase the public coffers goes untouched. Thats smart business sense.

Although - it is nice to note a worker in a place that has a mixed drink license can, infact, consume alcohol (as long as not to the point of intoxication) while on a break or lunch.

Read over the VABC license types, and tell me theres no tilt towards the larger businesses. Hotels and the like have no problem serving what they want, but don't you dare try to open a small tavern.

While I applaud VABC for attempting to control and curtail "DIP" (drunk in public) behavior, I also note there are many drunk driving accidents regardless of the laws. And seriously, where does personal responsibility come into play?

There are hard questions that need to be answered as Virginia steps into the 21st century, and they must be asked. Progress does not come easily anywhere, but sometimes change is necissicary for the good of the public.