LCB Statement on Media Reports and Concerns from LGBTQ+ Community

The Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) on Tuesday Jan. 30, 2024, released the following statement regarding concerns expressed by representatives of certain historically gay Capitol Hill liquor-licensed locations and members of the Seattle LGBTQ+ community.

The LCB wishes to assure the LGBTQ+ community that, in no uncertain terms, the agency does not and will not target LGBTQ+ locations. As expressed in the public statement by representatives of several gay bars in Seattle and representatives of Seattle’s LGBTQ+ community, LCB recognizes that these venues are considered “safe spaces for historically marginalized community members” and concerns raised by the visits over the last weekend raised alarm and concern among community members.

Background
On Friday Jan. 26, two LCB officers joined members of the City of Seattle’s Joint Enforcement Team (JET) as part of a monthly review of code enforcement at locations within Seattle. As part of that night’s work, the LCB visited 10 locations, two of which were known gay venues. Members of the JET team observed seven violations at these ten locations ranging from public safety violations of overservice to low-priority lewd conduct (WAC 314-11-050)

On Saturday Jan. 27, two LCB officers conducted routine premise checks at eight Seattle licensed locations. Of these, two were known LGBTQ+ liquor-licensed locations. Officers reported witnessing one violation involving lewd conduct. At this location, LCB officers spoke to the manager about the lewd conduct rules.

No Notices of Violation Were Issued
When an LCB officer witnesses a violation, it is incumbent upon them to take appropriate action. They do not typically issue a citation on the spot. Officers will discuss the violation with their supervisor, review whether past education has been provided, and ultimately decide if a verbal or written warning is appropriate or whether it should be escalated to an Administrative Violation Notice (AVN). An AVN is an administrative citation that results in a fine for first offenses within a two-year period.

That is the process in these instances and as of today no decision has been made. There is no emphasis on patrolling activity at LGBTQ+ establishments or any crackdown on lewd conduct violations. The actions of the weekend were the result of routine work by LCB and other agencies.

Conclusion
The LCB acknowledges the concerns raised in the public statement and the history behind them. The Board and agency staff remain committed to fostering good relations with business owners across all industries we regulate. The LCB has reached out to some signers on the statement to clarify our actions and our intent. We will continue to be available to the club owners and others in the community to further our mutual understanding.