Overview
- Administrator Curtis Stewart’s Oct. 28 letter proposes two immediate ABC rule changes: banning package stores in entertainment districts from selling items like cups and ice that facilitate public drinking, and capping off‑premises sales by special retail licensees.
- Stewart said the board will move to propose the administrative changes now, while inviting lawmakers to pursue additional reforms in the 2026 Regular Session.
- Recommended legislative options include curfews for minors in entertainment districts, limits on alcohol giveaways by public entities at large events, and authority for the state to suspend or end an entertainment district that fails safety standards.
- Governor Kay Ivey publicly endorsed the ABC Board’s near‑term steps and signaled openness to further policy changes to improve public safety.
- The measures follow the Oct. 4 Montgomery shooting that killed two and injured 12; four suspects have been charged, the city has suspended carry‑out open‑container privileges downtown, state troopers expanded patrols, and debate continues over expanding Aniah’s Law with a May ballot amendment.