The Tolbert Report

This afternoon the House Rules Committee will consider SB892, a bill that will ensure that private club holders are complying with the rules.  This bill will require organizations that hold non-profit private club licenses with the Alcohol Beverage Control Board to file one or two documents annually to ensure that they are in fact non-profit organizations.  According to ABC Rules Section 5.14, “Private Club means a non-profit corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Arkansas…” 

SB892 would require that these private clubs annually file a copy of their Arkansas “Annual Report for Nonprofit Corporation” that all Arkansas non-profits are already required to file with the Secretary of State.  In addition, if the private club is required to file a Form 990 with the IRS, then they must file a copy of the first page of this form as well.  This simple common sense law will ensure that private clubs serving alcohol in dry countries are following the rules.

This is why I hope the House Rules Committee, which is known for having the highest regard for the rules, will approve this bill so that is can have a vote on the House floor before the session ends on Thursday.  The Senate approved this bill with a unanimous 35 votes so surely the Rules Committee will do the right thing and recommend it as “do pass.”