Gov. Polis signs expansion of gallery license act into law in Olde Town Arvada

provement districts and downtown development authorities throughout the state.

BY RYLEE DUNN RDUNN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Art galleries and other small businesses will now be treated similarly to other retailers under the liquor code thanks to an act that Gov. Jared Polis signed into law in Olde Town Arvada on June 2. HB 1061 allows small retailers to have public events in their establishments during which a glass of wine, cocktail or beer can be served.

Polis signed the act into law at Adiluna Boutique in Olde Town Arvada, one of a handful of galleries in the historic district. e goal of the legislation, according to Polis’ communications team, is to support small businesses.

e idea for the law came from conversations between business im-

Lawmakers found that there was no simple way for small retailers, including clothing stores and galleries, to have events where alcohol may be served. Previously, to do so, retailers would have to have a special event permit and partner with a nonpro t.

Olde Town Arvada BID Director Joe Hengstler said that these concerns had been brought to his attention as well by local shopkeepers.

“We heard from so many business owners within the community who wanted the process simpli ed,” said Hengstler. “We are always looking for ways to support our local businesses and with the street closures now in place, it makes sense to give businesses another opportunity to increase their foot tra c by hosting creative events.” e bill was a bipartisan e ort that was signed into law at approximately 3:40 p.m. on June 2.