It will soon be legal for short-term rental operators in Washington to offer their guests complimentary wine upon arrival, after the governor signed a bipartisan bill from state Rep. Kevin Waters on Thursday.
House Bill 1731 will help the hospitality industry by allowing short-term rental operators, like those who rent properties through Airbnb, to acquire permits to provide one complimentary bottle of wine to rental guests who are at least 21 years old, under certain conditions.
“This policy is a commonsense way to help tourism in our state and introduce visitors to Washington to one of the great things we have to offer,” said Waters, R-Stevenson.
The legislation, which creates an annual $75 permit issued by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board, will help the hospitality industry by paving the way for short-term renters to build positive relationships with their guests through a friendly gesture.
“Many people who offer short-term rentals already leave a complimentary bottle of wine for guests,” said Waters. “So, essentially, they’ve been unintentionally violating the law. Thanks to this bill they will be in compliance.”
Currently, bed-and-breakfast facilities in Washington are allowed to provide guests with complimentary wine via a separate $75 permit from the state liquor board. House Bill 1731 gives this same privilege to short-term rental operators.
There will be around 300 operators eligible for the permit each year.
HB 1731 takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the 2023 legislative session, which ended on April 23.
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