BURLINGTON, N.J. – (October 2025) — ArtPride New Jersey applauds the passage of new liquor license legislation, which received strong bipartisan support and was signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy.
The bill expands eligibility to include nonprofit and for-profit theaters and small movie theaters across the state. This landmark legislation is a powerful economic driver for New Jersey, especially for arts organizations still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This new law unlocks the ability for eligible performance venues—including independent and nonprofit movie theaters with up to three screens—to apply for and benefit from liquor licenses. The legislation serves as a vital tool for arts organizations to diversify revenue streams, attract new audiences, and offset funding gaps, including potential reductions in federal support from agencies like the National Endowment for the Arts.
“We are incredibly grateful for Governor Murphy and the legislators who supported this bill, extending a lifeline to live performing arts venues in our state,” says Sara Scully, ArtPride New Jersey board member, co-founder, and former Executive Director at Hopewell Theater. “We, at Hopewell Theater (HT), advocated for this legislation because it provides an opportunity for HT and theaters like it to expand the experience they can offer patrons and to remain competitive.” Hopewell Theater closed a year and a half ago due to rising costs and the inability to obtain a liquor license – a key income source for live venues. Scully and associates are now working to re-envision what’s next for HT given the bill’s passage.
“We are thrilled to hear this news, both for HT and for all the other theaters that will benefit from this opportunity.”A Strategic Move for Economic VitalityNew Jersey’s nonprofit arts and culture industry already generates $692.1 million annually, supporting nearly 13,000 jobs and producing over $156.6 million in tax revenue for state and local governments. The addition of this earned income stream through liquor sales further strengthens the sector’s self-sustainability, allowing organizations to reinvest in programming, staff, and community outreach.
This legislation also levels the playing field, recognizing that nonprofit and for-profit venues often serve similar public functions and face the same financial pressures. The change provides a welcome path forward for small businesses and organizations that had been previously priced out of traditional liquor licenses—some of which were valued at over $1.5 million, as in the case of the Hopewell Theater.
Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese, Vice-Chair of the Assembly Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee, emphasized the importance of the new legislation, stating:
“Nonprofit theaters play a vital role in making our communities vibrant, both culturally and economically. While some theaters previously had access to beverage licenses, the process was narrow and limited in scope. This legislation expands eligibility and removes unnecessary barriers—giving more small theaters the opportunity to enhance the audience experience and support their long-term sustainability. I am proud to have worked with Senators Sarlo and Gopal, Assemblywoman Carter, and our partners in the arts to advance this bill. I look forward to seeing it strengthen neighborhoods, support local jobs, and help the arts thrive throughout the state.”
Community Revitalization with Cultural RootsBeyond internal revenue, the impact will ripple through local economies. More vibrant venue experiences translate into greater foot traffic, extended visitor stays, and increased patronage at nearby restaurants, shops, and hotels.“This legislation recognizes that arts and culture are central to thriving downtowns,” said Adam Perle, President & CEO of ArtPride New Jersey. “When theaters and performance spaces succeed, they don’t just benefit audiences—they energize entire communities, creating opportunities for small businesses, tourism, and long-term economic growth.”Next Steps & Oversight
The New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is currently developing implementation procedures. While details about license transferability and insurance remain under review, ArtPride New Jersey will continue to advocate for responsible, equitable rollouts that center the needs of arts organizations.
This legislative win was made possible through a collaborative advocacy effort led by ArtPride New Jersey, local theaters, the New Jersey Independent Venue Association, and government partners. The foundation was laid during the height of the pandemic, when the urgency to help shuttered venues became a rallying point for statewide reform.
Reflecting on the importance of this legislative milestone, State Senator Vin Gopal shared:
“Local theaters and arts organizations have profound impacts on our communities, both culturally and economically. I’m proud to have been a part of this legislation that will help to support and grow New Jersey’s local arts,” said State Senator Vin Gopal.
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