1. a. As used in this act, “open container area” means a portion of a municipality or an area encompassing the entire municipality upon which persons are permitted to carry and consume open containers of alcoholic beverages outdoors.

b. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a municipality may, by ordinance, authorize the consumption of alcoholic beverages within an open container area by persons who are at least 21 years of age.

A determination to adopt an ordinance pursuant to this subsection shall be made only after a public hearing is held by the municipal governing body on the merits of establishing an open container area.

c. The sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption in an open container area shall be subject to the provisions of Title 33 of the Revised Statutes, rules and regulations promulgated by the director, and municipal ordinances.

L.2021, c.395, s.1.