Woodstock preps for ‘Brunch Bill’ referendum

Anticipating Gov. Nathan Deal’s signature on a bill allowing earlier Sunday alcohol sales, the Woodstock City Council has passed a resolution for a referendum to be called as soon as the legislation clears the governor’s desk.

Senate Bill 17, the “Brunch Bill,” has passed both houses of the Legislature. If signed by Deal, it would allow local and county governments to permit the sale of alcoholic beverages by restaurants starting at 11 a.m. Sundays, compared with 12:30 p.m. currently – provided voters give their approval.

Depending on when Deal signs the bill, a special referendum on the earlier serving time could be placed on the May or November ballot. The question will ask, “Shall the governing authority … be authorized to permit and regulate Sunday sales of distilled spirits or alcoholic beverages for beverage purposes by the drink?”