Sandy Springs OKs referendum on earlier Sunday alcohol

Sandy Springs has called a Nov. 6 referendum, asking voters if they approve of earlier Sunday serving hours for alcohol. AJC FILE

Sandy Springs has called a Nov. 6 referendum, asking voters if they approve of earlier Sunday serving hours for alcohol. AJC FILE

The Sandy Springs City Council has approved earlier Sunday serving hours for alcohol for on-the-premises consumption, provided voters approve in a Nov. 6 referendum

Taking advantage of the powers granted to cities under Senate Bill 17, the so-called Sunday Brunch Bill or Mimosa Law passed by the General Assembly earlier this year, the council approved a resolution and ordinance calling the referendum and allowing the change in serving hours.

Voters will be asked, “Shall the governing authority of Sandy Springs, Georgia, be authorized to permit and regulate Sunday sales of distilled spirits or alcoholic beverages for beverage purposes by the drink from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.?” Currently, alcohol can be served Sundays only from 12:30 p.m. to midnight.

The measure applies to any licensed establishment that derives at least half of its total annual gross sales from the sale of prepared meals or at least half of its total annual gross income from the rental of rooms for overnight lodging.