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Alexander Moraski

THE DAILY NEWS 

A new state law passed during the 2025 Regular Session will prohibit Washington Parish and its municipalities from enacting complete bans on the sale or consumption of alcoholic beverages. However, local governments will still retain the authority to regulate such activity.

House Bill 113, introduced by Rep. Wyble, was enacted as Act No. 308 and adds Section 496 to Title 26 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes. The law states that, despite any other provisions of state law, parish and municipal governments within Washington Parish “may regulate but shall not prohibit” the sale or consumption of beverages with either high or low alcohol content.

The legislation comes in response to long-standing debates in Washington Parish over alcohol regulations, including efforts in certain areas to maintain dry policies or impose blanket restrictions on alcohol sales. While regulation—including zoning, hours of operation, and licensing—remains within the power of local authorities, the new law eliminates the possibility of full prohibition.

Under the previous law, local jurisdictions in Louisiana had greater leeway in restricting alcohol sales, particularly in rural or religiously conservative communities. The new statute brings Washington Parish more in line with statewide norms, where regulation is encouraged over prohibition.

Supporters of the bill argue that the change could promote business growth and improve access to hospitality services across the parish. Opponents have expressed concerns about preserving local traditions and maintaining public safety in communities that have historically limited alcohol access.

The act has received approval from both chambers of the legislature and is now pending the governor’s final signature.