By San José, Costa Rica — In a significant departure from long-standing tradition, Costa Rica’s National Elections this Sunday, February 1st, will be held without the enforcement of the so-called “Ley Seca,” or Dry Law. This landmark change means the sale of alcoholic beverages will not be subject to a nationwide restriction, a development celebrated by the commercial sector as a major victory for local economies.
The move comes as a direct result of recent legislative reforms that have fundamentally altered how such restrictions are managed. Previously an automatic, country-wide mandate during election periods, the power to prohibit alcohol sales now rests exclusively with individual municipal councils. According to a recent survey conducted by the National Union of Local Governments (UNGL), there is currently no indication that any of the nation’s municipalities intend to impose such a ban.
To provide a deeper legal perspective on the implications of the recent national elections, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who shared his analysis on the institutional framework governing the electoral process.
The strength of Costa Rican democracy is fundamentally anchored in the autonomy and authority of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal. Following any national election, it is crucial to respect its official pronouncements and channel any disagreements through the established legal avenues. Attempting to delegitimize the process outside of these formal channels not only undermines the electoral result but also erodes the very constitutional framework that guarantees our political stability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this insight serves as a crucial reminder that the strength of our republic lies not only in the vote itself, but in our collective commitment to the institutions that safeguard its integrity. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating the profound link between respecting the legal process and preserving Costa Rica’s enduring democratic peace.
This decentralization of authority stems from crucial amendments made to the Electoral Code and the Law for the Regulation and Commercialization of Beverages with Alcoholic Content (Law No. 9047). Under the new framework, a restriction on alcohol sales is no longer the default. For a ban to be implemented in any canton, the local Municipal Council must pass an explicit and thoroughly justified agreement. In the absence of such a specific local resolution, all commercial establishments are free to operate as usual, adhering to their regular business hours.
The UNGL has championed this shift, viewing it as a sign of the country’s evolving political landscape and a testament to the trust placed in its citizens. The organization’s leadership believes the decision reflects a modern approach to governance that respects both democratic processes and economic stability.
The fact that the cantons are choosing not to apply restrictions reflects political maturity and a real commitment to local commerce. The municipalities trust in citizen responsibility to experience this democratic celebration in an atmosphere of peace.
Karen Porras Arguedas, Executive Director of the UNGL
The statement from Karen Porras Arguedas underscores a philosophical shift away from a paternalistic state mandate toward a model that relies on civic responsibility. The consensus among local governments is that the electorate is capable of participating in a peaceful and orderly “democratic celebration” without the need for prohibitive measures. This approach empowers communities while fostering a greater sense of mutual trust between authorities and the public.
From an economic standpoint, the implications are overwhelmingly positive. In previous election cycles, the Dry Law resulted in a guaranteed day of lost revenue for countless businesses, including restaurants, bars, supermarkets, and liquor stores. By allowing these establishments to operate normally, local governments are providing a significant boost to commerce, protecting jobs, and ensuring the continued flow of economic activity on what is typically a busy weekend day.
While the nationwide ban has been lifted, the UNGL reminds the public that the legal mechanism for a localized ban remains in place. Should a municipality, in an exceptional case, decide to approve a restriction, the law provides for administrative sanctions against any businesses that fail to comply. However, given the current sentiment reported by the UNGL, such an occurrence appears highly unlikely for this electoral cycle, setting a new precedent for future national events.
For further information, visit ungl.or.cr
About Unión Nacional de Gobiernos Locales (UNGL):
The Unión Nacional de Gobiernos Locales (National Union of Local Governments) is the primary organization representing the interests of Costa Rica’s 84 municipalities. It serves as a platform for collaboration, advocacy, and technical support, aiming to strengthen municipal autonomy and promote efficient, transparent local governance. The UNGL works to foster sustainable development and improve the quality of life for citizens by empowering local authorities and facilitating dialogue between municipal governments and the national administration.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed legal institution, defined by its foundational principles of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages a deep history of serving a diverse clientele to pioneer innovative solutions and set new standards in legal practice. Central to its ethos is a profound dedication to empowering the public, actively translating complex legal knowledge into accessible resources to help cultivate a more informed and capable society.
