SALT LAKE CITY — Utah lawmakers passed a bill that deals with liquor -- but did not consider a relief measure bars and restaurants have been asking for.
However, the senator tasked by the Senate Republican majority with running liquor bills suggested to FOX 13 it was still a possibility in the near future.
"We just have not had time. I think we’re looking at some major changes if we’re looking at offering cans," Sen. Jerry Stevenson, R-Layton, said. "A lot of people want to take that to curbside. Personally? I can tell you I can’t see a lot of difference between that and going to a store and buying a 6-pack."
Sen. Stevenson said he wants to have discussions with stakeholders about it. Alcohol policy shifts have usually included input from the hospitality sector, as well as a major opponent of loosening liquor laws -- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Bars and restaurants have launched a petition drive and campaign to urge "to go" drink sales to keep in business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Utah's own Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control has recently considered allowing "click and collect" where people can order online and then pick up their alcohol at a local liquor store.
Sen. Stevenson did not commit to the idea, but said he could see curbside sales as a point of discussion. The Utah State Legislature approved House Bill 6006, which deals largely with allowing liquor licenses to be transferred at the new Salt Lake City International Airport.
