Following state regulations is an essential part of any business. For those operating establishments in Texas where alcohol is sold, staying compliant with Texas liquor laws requires keeping up with key deadlines set by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC). Whether you’re a bar owner, retailer, distributor, or involved in any part of the alcohol industry, these dates should be on your radar. Remaining in compliance helps you to avoid penalties and maintain your license in good standing.
Key TABC Deadlines & Important Dates
Below are some important dates to add to your calendar. If you’re unsure which apply to your business, talk to a Texas liquor license lawyer.
- March 15 – Excise taxes due
- March 25 – TABC Commission Meeting
- April 15 – Excise taxes due
- May 15 – Excise taxes due
- June 2 – Last day of the 89th regular legislative session
- June 15 – Excise taxes due
- June 30 – Deadline to submit compliance reports for 2025
What These Dates Mean for You
Why are these dates important for those in the alcohol industry? Below, we explain:
- Excise Tax Deadlines: If your business is required to pay excise taxes on alcohol sales, ensure payments are submitted on time to avoid fines or penalties. Late payments can result in enforcement actions from TABC.
- TABC Commission Meeting (March 25): These meetings discuss regulatory changes, license matters, and industry concerns. If you’re affected by new TABC rules, it’s worth keeping an eye on these meetings.
- Legislative Session Ends (June 2): The 89th regular session of the Texas Legislature will conclude. While new liquor laws are not passed in every legislative session that happens, it’s important to know when they do. New liquor laws passed may impact how alcohol businesses operate in Texas. Understanding what laws are up for vote can help you make informed decisions about your business.
- Compliance Report Deadline (June 30): If you hold a TABC license, your business must submit compliance reports by this date for the 2025 licensing period. If you do not submit your compliance report on time, it can jeopardize your ability to continue operations.
How to Stay Compliant
- Set reminders: Missing deadlines can be costly, as fines and even license revocations can be penalties for failing to take required actions. Schedule reminders for tax payments and report submissions ahead of the actual date so you don’t need to stress about last-minute filings or mistakes.
- Monitor legislative changes: New laws could affect licensing, sales, or business operations. Ensure that you stay up-to-date and informed to avoid surprises. If you’re unsure about how a change may affect your business, discuss it with your Texas liquor license attorney.
- Consult with experts: If you have concerns about compliance, working with a Texas liquor law attorney can help navigate complex regulations.
For the latest updates and legal insights on Texas liquor laws, stay tuned to our blog at TexasLiquorLaw.com. If you need legal assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us.