The following is an opinion editorial by Jean Bahn of Farmview Event Barn regarding Act 73, a law modifying Wisconsin’s alcohol regulations. It will require any venue made available to the public for rent for an event as a “public place.” Because of this, businesses such as wedding barns must obtain a liquor license.
The impact of Act 73 regulations on private event rental spaces is detrimental to small family farms. With USDA forecasting another income drop for 2025, farms rely on private agricultural events to survive. The current limit of six events per year is overly restrictive, driving away high-spending clients and hurting small businesses that depend on these events.
The Division of Alcohol, created without funding, could generate more revenue by increasing the number of allowed “no sale venue permit” events. Forcing small venues — who don’t sell alcohol — to obtain liquor licenses they don’t need also restricts others from starting businesses.
Small business owners deserve fair legislation, not rules favoring specific lobbying groups like the Tavern League. Defining private, invitation-only events as public while exempting public events makes no sense.
A trailer bill allowing 36 “no sale permit” events annually would cost the state nothing but bring in more tax revenue. It would help farms stay viable, protect family land, and support rural economies. Consumers would regain lost options, and Wisconsin would remain competitive with states that welcome such events without burdensome regulations.
A simple change from 6 to 36 events would benefit Wisconsinites. Ask WI legislators to support legislation increasing the number of “no sale event” permits to 36 per year for seasonal agricultural structures on working farms and allow the consumption of beer, wine and spirits served by licensed bartenders. This change would elevate Wisconsin as America’s Agricultural Tourism Destination, driving economic growth for farms, rural communities, and the state.
