MAST Permit Update for Minors With a Class 13 MAST Permit
The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB) recently updated WAC 314-17-015 making an allowance for minors holding a Class 13 MAST Permit.
Prior to the updated rule, Class 13 permit holders were only allowed to open or pour beer or wine into a customer’s glass, at their table. Effective March 3, 2024, they can open or pour beer or wine into a customer’s glass at areas other than their table, so long as it’s not in a minor restricted area.
Unfortunately, with regards to “drawing alcohol from a tap,” that is something that minors are still not authorized to do, regardless of where it’s located. So essentially, minors can only open or pour beer or wine into a customer’s glass from a can or bottle.
So, what can Class 13 permit holders do now that they couldn’t before? They can be more involved with drink service at the counter of establishments that allow minors. For example, they may pour beer, wine or cider for service at wineries and family friendly restaurants without a designated bar area. However, they probably won’t be much use at breweries since most of the drinks poured there come from a tap. (Sorry breweries ☹️.)
During the pandemic, this became a temporary allowance to help with social distancing. The update to WAC 314-17-015 has made the former temporary allowance permanent.
Filed 1/31/24.
Effective 3/2/24.
MAST Permit Update for Persons Convicted of a Felony
The Washington State Legislature recently passed Senate Bill 5816 making allowances for MAST Permit holders with violations.
Prior to the bill, permit holders could have their permit revoked if convicted of a felony (any felony). Effective June 6, 2024, it can be revoked for a felony under the specific RCW’s listed below or for a felony that is directly related to alcohol service. (Note: there are almost no felonies related to alcohol service.)
A MAST Permit may be suspended or revoked if the permittee has been convicted at any time of one of the following RCW felonies:
- Chapter 9A.40 – Kidnapping/Unlawful Imprisonment
- Chapter 9A.44 – Sex Offences
- Chapter 9A.46 – Harassment
- Chapter 9A.86 – Disclosing Intimate Images
- Chapter 9A.88 – Indecent Exposure/Prostitution
Per the senate bill report, “this bill allows people who have made mistakes earlier in their life to still be able to get a job…People deserve a second chance and they should not be barred from employment due to a felony conviction.”
Filed 3/27/24.
Effective 6/6/24.
What These Updates Mean for You
These Washington MAST Permit updates aim to balance flexibility with safety in the alcohol service industry.
For minors, the new rules open up opportunities to gain hands-on experience in service roles. Employers, however, must remain mindful of restrictions to ensure compliance. For individuals with felony convictions, the changes mean fairer access to jobs, emphasizing rehabilitation over restriction.
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