Wisconsin Wedding Barns Sue to Block New Liquor License Law

Two Wisconsin wedding barns, Farmview Event Barn and Monarch Valley Wedding & Events, have filed a lawsuit against the state, seeking to block enactment of a new law that requires them to obtain liquor licenses. The lawsuit alleges that the law violates equal protection guarantees and the right to earn a living under the Wisconsin Constitution by imposing an illegal, non-uniform tax. The new law affects every level of the state’s alcohol industry, including new requirements on facilities that host wedding receptions and other events but are not traditional bars, restaurants, or entertainment venues. These venues must now obtain either a permit or license to sell or allow alcohol legally starting in 2026. The lawsuit argues that the law gives special treatment to certain entities, such as municipalities, schools, churches, and clubs, and that this is unconstitutional.

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