Committee backs Lake Wales bill to allow contained open-drink service in arts district

Representative Albert introduced HB 4055, a local bill to allow open containers in the City of Lake Wales’ downtown arts district, saying the city has invested roughly $40,000,000 in the area and growth supports the change.

The amendment offered by the sponsor clarifies the bill’s intent: permitted containers should be portable cups or sealed receptacles intended for on-the-street consumption, not allowing patrons to leave restaurants carrying full bottles. Representative Albert said the change “was never to have somebody ... walk the streets” with a wine bottle.

Robert Stewart of the City of Lake Wales waved in support during the public-comment period; no opponents appeared. The amendment was adopted without objection and the committee voted to report HB 4055 favorably.

The bill will be placed on the committee’s favorable report and proceed to the next step in the House process.