WRE News: Battle Surrounding Miami Beach Alcohol Restrictions Continues

Miami, FL – August 9, 2023 – Miami Beach’s battle over alcohol sales and its impact on the city’s iconic nightlife scene continues to unfold, as efforts to enforce stricter regulations face challenges.

Nearly two years ago, Miami Beach voters supported a referendum to establish a 2am alcohol sales cutoff, aiming to address the issues stemming from the city’s nightlife. However, subsequent attempts to pass local laws curbing alcohol sales have encountered obstacles. The city’s renowned South Beach nightlife draws tourists, but managing large crowds during events like spring break has posed a dilemma for city leaders.

In 2021, a nonbinding referendum saw 57% of voters favor rolling back the alcohol cutoff from 5am to 2am, with exceptions. Despite the public’s support, many efforts by the City Commission to restrict alcohol sales have faltered due to a lack of commission backing or legal challenges. The city’s first significant alcohol-related legislation, a 2am rollback in the South of Fifth neighborhood, led to the closure of Story nightclub.

Mayor Dan Gelber, a proponent of the 2am last call, faced disappointment last month when his proposal to ban alcohol sales citywide for around 10 days during spring break failed to garner commission support. Gelber plans to reintroduce the proposal for a vote in September.