French Lawmakers Approve Bill to Revive Village Bars

The legislation aims to boost rural communities by easing restrictions on alcohol permits, despite concerns over public health risks.

France's Assemblée Nationale passed a bill allowing rural villages to request new type-4 alcohol licenses, which permit the sale of spirits, to open bars in areas lacking any.
The legislation seeks to address the dramatic decline of cafés in France, which dropped from 200,000 in 1960 to 36,000 by 2015, particularly in rural regions.
Supporters argue the measure will combat social isolation, foster community ties, and stimulate local economies by creating jobs.
Critics warn the policy could increase alcohol consumption in areas with limited addiction support services and question the necessity of including hard liquor in the law.
The bill, passed with overwhelming support in the lower house, now awaits approval from the Sénat to become law.