Press Release

Title: Small Tennessee Businesses Fight to Change Outdated Liquor Laws

Nashville, TN – May 11 2025 – Local small business owners in Tennessee are speaking up about an outdated state law that unfairly restricts their ability to succeed. The current regulation prevents businesses from obtaining a liquor license if the owner has a family member working for the Alcoholic Beverage Commission (ABC) board.

A local restaurant owner shared his frustration: “As a small business owner, I’ve seen how outdated laws hold us back. This particular law unfairly limits our growth, making it impossible to compete fairly with bigger restaurant chains.”

Serving alcohol isn’t just about extra revenue—it’s a key part of the dining experience that customers expect. Without the ability to offer alcohol, local businesses lose important sales and struggle to provide the complete dining experience customers desire. Big chains, on the other hand, easily bypass these rules, putting local restaurants at a serious disadvantage.

“This law mainly helps larger businesses that can afford ways around it,” the owner said. “For small restaurants, having a liquor license could mean the difference between staying open or shutting our doors for good.”

Business owners are calling on state leaders and the public to help modernize these laws. “Times have changed, and these rules should too,” the owner added. “It’s time to level the playing field so small businesses like ours can thrive.”

Supporters are encouraged to help by signing the petition at: https://www.change.org/p/allow-fair-access-to-liquor-licenses-for-tennessee-businesses.

“Our communities are built around small businesses. Let’s work together to change these laws now,” the owner urges. “PLEASE spread the word!”