Maui’s 24-Hour Alcohol Sales Law to be Reconsidered

The Maui Liquor Commission will meet on July 12 for a public hearing to consider proposed changes to the existing rules that were implemented in February.

Liquor commissioners discuss proposed rule changes. PC: 5.10.17 by Wendy Osher.

In February, the commission voted for and the mayor signed into law measures that: lift the 12 establishment cap on hostess bars; allow for the 24-hour sale of alcohol at retail establishments; and create a market for the home delivery of alcohol in the county.

The meeting was prompted by two letters to the commission from resident Mahina Martin, who argued that the items were allowed to pass without input from many of those affected by the changes.

Special meetings were then held in May to hear the concerns and the Commission voted to take the proposed changes to the existing rules back to the public for consideration.

Proposed changes seek a repeal of the laws and a return to the previous 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. restriction on retail sales of alcohol; a 12 cap license for hostess bars; and the elimination of home delivery of alcohol.