2021 House Bill 5304

Authorize “robo-bartenders”

Introduced in the House

Sept. 21, 2021

Introduced by Rep. Rodney Wakeman (R-94)

Authorize and create a comprehensive regulatory regime for the use of “robo-bartender” dispensing machines for beer, wine and mixed drinks that are located at a customer's table or with use of a secure "key card" in other parts of establishments with a liquor license, including restaurants, certain hotel rooms and more. The machines could not dispense more than 96 ounces in a single order, or dispense spirituous liquor “straight.” Customers would still have to place the order with a human staff member, and staff members would still be required to monitor the service.

Referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform

Feb. 8, 2022

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-2) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

Feb. 15, 2022

Substitute offered by Rep. Rodney Wakeman (R-94)

To revise details of the bill, and authorized enhanced fines if a minor or visibly intoxicated individual is able to get alcohol from the machines.

The substitute passed by voice vote

Feb. 17, 2022

Passed in the House 74 to 27 (details)

To authorize and create a comprehensive regulatory regime for the use of “robo-bartender” dispensing machines for beer, wine and mixed drinks that are located at a customer's table or with use of a secure "key card" in other parts of establishments with a liquor license, including restaurants, certain hotel rooms and more. The machines could not dispense more than 96 ounces in a single order, or dispense spirituous liquor “straight.” Customers would still have to place the order with a human staff member, and staff members would still be required to monitor the service.

Received in the Senate

Feb. 22, 2022

Referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform