Arizona lawmakers recently passed House Bill 2411, which could significantly impact the golf scene across the state. This legislation allows golfers to bring their own beer or alcohol to certain golf courses that choose to permit it. At first glance, this might seem like a win for golfers who enjoy a cold beverage on the links, but the reality is that HB 2411 could have serious consequences for both golfers and golf course operations alike.
The Green Fee Dilemma
If you think green fees are expensive now, just wait until courses pump up green fees because of HB 2411.
A major source of revenue for golf courses comes from alcohol sales at their bars, restaurants, and beverage carts. With HB 2411 in effect, many courses that allow BYOB could see a significant drop in alcohol sales. To make up for this loss, golf courses may have no choice but to raise their green fees. This means golfers could end up paying much more just to play a round.
What’s worse is that not all golf courses will allow BYOB. The courses that choose to permit outside alcohol may find themselves struggling to balance the books, while those that don’t allow it might lose business to competitors. In both cases, golfers could face increased costs just to keep courses financially viable.
Job Losses in the Golf Industry
Beyond the financial burden on golfers, HB 2411 could also spell trouble for employees in the golf industry. Many courses employ bartenders, restaurant staff, and beverage cart workers who rely on alcohol sales for their livelihood. With fewer golfers purchasing drinks from the course, these jobs may be at risk.
The beverage cart, a staple of the golf experience, could become a thing of the past at many courses that permit BYOB. Without a steady flow of customers, beverage cart workers may see their hours cut or lose their jobs altogether. Similarly, restaurant and bar staff could see a sharp decline in business, leading to further job losses across the industry.
Increased Risk of Overconsumption
Another major concern surrounding HB 2411 is the potential for increased alcohol consumption on the course. When alcohol is sold at a golf course, staff can monitor and regulate consumption, refusing service to overly intoxicated players. However, with BYOB, there’s little to no oversight on how much a golfer consumes.
This could lead to rowdier crowds, slower play, and a diminished golfing experience for everyone. Imagine being stuck behind a group that’s had one too many and is taking forever on each hole. Not only does this make the game less enjoyable, but it could also result in longer rounds and more frustration for those who just want to play their game.
More Intoxicated Drivers on the Road
The worst-case scenario? More drunk drivers leaving golf courses.
With alcohol consumption becoming harder to regulate on the course, the risk of golfers getting behind the wheel while intoxicated could rise. Golf courses with bars and restaurants can at least monitor patrons and cut them off when necessary. But if players are bringing their own alcohol in unlimited quantities, the likelihood of impaired driving incidents increases, putting lives at risk on Arizona roads.
Support Your Local Golf Courses
HB 2411 might seem like a convenience for golfers at first, but it could end up hurting the very courses and industry that make the game enjoyable. The loss of alcohol sales could lead to higher green fees, job cuts, and an increase in irresponsible drinking behaviors on the course.
As a golfer, you can help by continuing to support your local golf course’s restaurants and bars. Buying drinks from the course instead of bringing your own helps sustain jobs, keep green fees reasonable, and maintain the golfing experience we all love.
Arizona’s golf industry is a vital part of the state’s economy and culture. Let’s make sure we do our part to keep it thriving.
Read more about Arizona H.B. 2411: AZleg.gov
