As the calendar turns to May, American Beverage Licensees (ABL) proudly kicks off Tavern Month, celebrating the key role that bars and taverns play in communities across the country. From creating jobs and generating tax revenue, to sponsoring youth sports teams and local charities, to serving as welcoming “third places” for social connection, neighborhood bars and taverns are integral to the fabric of American life.
“Taverns and bars are more than places to enjoy a drink—they are cornerstones of economic opportunity and community engagement,” says John Bodnovich, Executive Director of ABL. “Whether in big cities or small towns, these establishments provide a safe and welcoming place for people to gather, celebrate, and connect. As we celebrate Tavern Month this May, we have an opportunity to recognize the entrepreneurial spirit of bar owners and the important work they do to advocate for policies that support their businesses and the communities they serve.”
Across the United States, on-premise alcohol sales directly create over 1.14 million jobs generating over $33.7 billion in wages and $88.3 billion in direct economic impact. Many of these independently owned bars and taverns are passed down from generation to generation, representing the very essence of America’s small business backbone.
“In communities from coast to coast, taverns are pillars of connection and culture,” says Bobby Greenawalt, ABL Board President. “They create a sense of belonging, support local economies, and foster civic pride. Tavern Month is a chance to recognize not only their economic impact, but also the human connections they make possible.”
Tavern Month also highlights the policy challenges and opportunities that bar and tavern owners face in today’s business and legislative environment. As small business owners, they continue to adapt to evolving consumer habits, regulatory changes, and economic pressures. ABL and its state affiliates remain at the forefront of advocacy efforts on behalf of these entrepreneurs.
Through their state associations and ABL, bar and tavern owners remain organized and active voices in state legislatures and in Washington, D.C. Whether testifying at hearings, engaging with lawmakers, or sharing stories of how their businesses impact real people in real communities, these small business owners are committed to fighting for their livelihoods and those of their employees.
Among the top priorities for bar and tavern owners this year:
- Business Certainty Through Tax Policy: Beverage licensees are urging Congress to pass tax legislation that will provide long-term business clarity for pass-through companies so they can invest and grow by avoiding tax policy volatility.
- Credit Card Network Competition: ABL supports the Credit Card Competition Act that would increase competition among credit card networks, helping to reduce $187 billion in swipe fees that hit merchants and their customers.
- Transparency and Fairness in Music Licensing: Many on-premise beverage establishments use music to create an inviting environment. The increasing complexity, cost, and confusion surrounding public performance rights have created significant challenges that require thoughtful reform and a renewed focus on fairness and clarity.
- Following Science Over Bias: Members of Congress, ABL and other beverage alcohol industry groups have raised numerous concerns about the process for the Dietary Guidelines for Americans review on alcohol. Licensees continue to call for an alcohol review process that is transparent, deliberative, science-driven, and results in guidance grounded in the preponderance of scientific and medical knowledge as required by law.
Bars and taverns are also crucial entry points for innovation in the beverage industry, which in some states includes hemp-derived THC beverages. Recognizing consumer demand for new regulated products, licensed beverage retailers can serve as trusted and experienced experts who legislators, regulators and consumers can rely on as they evaluate regulatory options that best fit their state. With their long-standing compliance history in the sale and service of age-restricted products, beverage licensees are uniquely positioned to handle products responsibly and in accordance with evolving state laws.
This May, as Americans raise a glass to celebrate graduations, weddings, sporting events and life’s milestones, ABL encourages everyone to do so responsibly—and to support the local bars and taverns that make those memories possible.
“Tavern Month is about celebrating what these establishments mean to people,” added Bodnovich. “We invite all Americans to stop by their neighborhood bar, thank the owners and staff, and recognize the important role they play—not just in pouring drinks, but in pouring into the heart of our communities.”