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LDS Church opposes changes to Utah liquor laws

Posted at 4:38 PM, Jan 21, 2014
and last updated 2014-01-21 19:11:43-05

SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement Tuesday stating its support for existing alcohol laws in the state.

“…Alcohol policy in Utah is closely tied to the moral climate of the state and legislation should not enable, promote or contribute to an ‘alcohol culture,’” according to the release.

The church states that Utah’s alcohol laws and regulations are based on well-reasoned and sound public policy considerations adopted by Utah’s legislature, not on the Church’s religious doctrine regarding alcohol.

The Church is opposed to any legislation that would weaken the current laws and regulations, which include the following:

-privatization of alcoholic beverage control system

-increase in alcohol license quotas

-allow of the sale of heavy beer, wine and distilled spirits in grocery and stores or allowing direct distribution of these products outside the state control system

-Other proposals that would promote increased sales or consumption of alcohol products

The statement and videos regarding the issue can be seen in full at mormonnewsroom.org.