The Washington Alcoholic Beverage Control Board has declined to see a case by D.C. residents who argue that the city’s Trump International Hotel should lose its liquor license over its owner’s character, citing accusations of sexual misconduct and deception.
The complaint filed by three ministers, two retired judges, and two rabbis says that President Donald Trump is violating the city law that says license applicants must be of “good character,” according to a report by The Associated Press.
“The law is clear that the owner of any establishment in the District selling alcoholic beverage must be quote of good character,” said Joshua Levy, the residents’ attorney.
Donovan Anderson, ABC board chairman, said the board has decided not to hold a show cause hearing at this time.
“The board does not agree with the assumption that a character and fitness review may be initiated at any time,” he explained.
Levy said they’ll ask for reconsideration.
Update: On technicality, DC Alcoholic Beverage Control Board decides not to review Trump Hotel liquor license–for now. Fusion GPS lawyer disappointed. From Politico: https://t.co/N3IjkH9QXZ pic.twitter.com/OYopXT0iem
— Byron York (@ByronYork) September 12, 2018
On Wednesday, the board ruled that the character of a liquor license owner is only reviewed when licenses are issued, transferred or renewed, according to a report in The Washington Post.
“It’s important to note Washington hotel liquor license owners are required to apply to review their licenses by March 31,” said Anderson.