Legislation Supports the Arts and Non-Profits

Legislation sponsored by Senate Republican Leader Tom Kean and Senator Michael Testa to boost support for the arts by allowing alcohol sales at small, non-profit theaters has been signed into law.

Legislation by Sen. Tom Kean and Michael Testa to boost support for the arts by allowing alcohol sales at small, non-profit theaters has been signed into law. (Pixabay)

“This law will encourage more New Jerseyans to go their local theater where they can grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy the show,” said Kean (R-21). “Giving small theaters the opportunity to serve alcohol opens an untapped revenue stream to support plays and performances. This will increase foot traffic and ticket sales, and bolster non-profit theater’s bottom lines across the Garden State.”

“Local theaters give back to our communities in numerous ways,” said Testa (R-1). “This new law will help many local theaters in South Jersey continue to grow and succeed.”

Kean’s bipartisan law, A-1478/S-1648 will permit non-profit theaters with 50 seats or more to apply for liquor licenses. Testa is a co-sponsor of the law.

Kean, a longtime supporter of the arts, is a member of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. He has been named a Distinguished Arts Advocate by ArtPride NJ.

Kean is also the first co-sponsor of S-247, which would increase annual State funding for the arts, historical heritage, and tourism.

“Supporting the arts, particularly small non-profits, will strengthen every aspect of New Jersey’s vibrant arts community,” added Kean. “This law will help venues serve patrons a memorable ‘night at the theater’ experience that will help the arts and the local economy flourish.”