If Indiana lifts its ban on Sunday alcohol sales, it looks like the hours will be noon to eight.
A special commission reviewing Indiana’s alcohol laws recommended those hours, and House and Senate bills both followed that advice. On a voice vote, the Senate has rejected Portage Democrat Karen Tallian’s call to make it seven a-m to three a-m, the same as the rest of the week.
Public Policy Chairman Ron Alting (R-Lafayette) notes the limited Sunday hours are consistent with what most states do. And the commission noted it’s short enough to allow liquor stores to add just one shift.
House Public Policy Chairman Ben Smaltz (R-Auburn) says he’s open to extending Sunday hours in future years, but says expanded alcohol access will bring at least some increase in alcohol-related crimes. He says the state should take time to review those effects before authorizing a full 20-hour sales day.
Both the House and Senate could vote on their versions of the bill next week. Even with a yes vote in the House and Senate, the bill will still have to pass again next month before going to Governor Holcomb. It’d take effect July 1.