French Lawmakers Debate Plan to Revive Rural Bistros

Proposal seeks to simplify licensing for alcohol-serving establishments in small towns, sparking discussions on rural revitalization and public health.

The French National Assembly is considering a proposal to ease the process of obtaining a license IV for opening bistros and cafés in towns with fewer than 3,500 residents that currently lack such establishments.
The bill, led by Guillaume Kasbarian, aims to address the decline of rural commerce and strengthen social bonds in underserved communities.
Critics have raised concerns about potential public health risks, noting that alcohol is linked to 41,000 premature deaths annually in France.
Supporters argue that regulated bistros discourage excessive alcohol consumption compared to at-home drinking and contribute to community cohesion.
Debates also focus on preventing larger towns from monopolizing the new licenses and ensuring the measure benefits rural areas as intended.