Miami Beach, Florida, is considering a pilot program through which the sale of alcohol on the beach and nearby areas would be regulated. Currently, it is being analyzed by the Miami Beach Commission, awaiting approval. If approved, permits would be granted to the company Boucher Brothers to operate alcoholic beverage kiosks. This idea arises with the goal of controlling tourism, safety, and the local economy. Specifically, unauthorized alcohol sales pose a problem for local authorities in the area, as they generate public disorder situations. If approved, it is expected that the sale of alcohol will be limited from Lummus Park to 21st Street, during a one-year trial period.
Vendors will have the obligation to verify the age of consumers with a valid official ID in accordance with the regulations of Miami-Dade County. The aim is to achieve responsible consumption on the beaches of the United States, in addition to reinvesting 30% of the revenue back into the municipality. However, not all voices agree with this proposal. Tanya Katzoff Bhatt believes it would jeopardize the reputation and coexistence of Miami Beach. The measure would come into effect when the contracts with Boucher Brothers are finalized and adjusted to the relevant regulations.
Alcohol consumption on the beaches of the United States
The consumption of alcohol on the beaches of the United States is completely prohibited. This is why, on the beaches of Miami Beach in Florida, the unauthorized sale of alcohol poses a real problem for local authorities, especially among tourists. This leads to uncontrolled consumption that often results in difficulties for the authorities in maintaining public order.
This is why it is being considered in Miami Beach to establish points of sale for alcohol as a means of control. It is believed that since people demand its sale and it is done clandestinely, it would be better to officially allow its sale and at least have some control over it. It is currently under review by the Miami Beach Commission. If approved, permits would be granted to the company Boucher Brothers to manage alcoholic beverage kiosks in specific areas of the city.
New formal measure
The kiosks, which would be managed by the company Boucher Brother, would be divided into zones. Initially, they would be limited to the area between Lummus Park and 21st Street. This initiative has a trial period of one year, and according to official documents, wine, beer, and champagne would be offered from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. All sales staff are required to ensure that consumers are of legal age, in compliance with Miami-Dade County regulations. Another mandatory requirement is that the kiosks must be well-marked, not sell alcohol to minors, and promote responsible consumption. To enhance security, there will be the presence of off-duty police officers and private security.
Economic impact
The agreement with the Boucher Brothers company states that between 15%-30% of the revenues will be allocated directly to the municipality, amounting to $250,000 annually, which is exactly the duration of the trial period. This figure is helpful as it would secure the financing of the project during that period. Despite the fact that the project is already under review, there are voices within the commission that are not very in favor of it. This is the case for Tanya Katzoff Bhatt, who believes that both the reputation and coexistence in Miami Beach could be called into question.
When would it start?
The measure would come into effect when the contracts with Boucher Brothers expire. Municipal regulations also need to be adjusted to meet that request, so we would have to wait for that coordination to take place. What do you think about this new measure? Do you think that controlling alcohol consumption by legalizing it will help improve the situation that occurs on the beaches of Miami Beach?