Measure would prohibit local government from requiring licensing
OLYMPIA – A bill has been introduced in the state House of Representatives that would protect child entrepreneurs wanting to sell lemonade in the summer or hot chocolate in the winter.
House Bill 2232, introduced by Rep. Luanne Van Werven, R-Lynden, would protect children from overzealous bureaucrats trying to collect business license and other fees, or restrict their ability to occasionally sell non-alcoholic drinks to passersby.
A public hearing on the measure took place Jan. 21.
Under the bill, local governments would be prohibited from enacting or enforcing laws restricting children from selling non-alcoholic drinks at stands on private property. Furthermore, local governments would be prohibited from requiring a license for a child to sell hot or cold beverages.
Roger Harnack is the owner/publisher of Free Press Publishing. Having grown up Benton City, Roger is an award-winning journalist, columnist, photographer, editor and publisher. He's one of only two editorial/commentary writers from Washington state to ever receive the international Golden Quill. Roger is dedicated to the preservation of local media, and the voice it retains for Eastern Washington.
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