Legislature loosens cap on on Election Day liquor restrictions

With a few jokes, the House passed a Senate bill Wednesday that will allow bars, private clubs and restaurants to serve liquor on Election Day.

Rep. Greg Hughes, R-Draper, said in long-gone days, some polling places were actually in saloons. "And some politicians — I can't believe this — might induce voting with liquor." But that is no longer the case. In fact, now Utah has early and absentee voting weeks before Election Day, and liquor outlets are serving booze during those times.

"This is only a half-way measure," said Hughes. State liquor stores and packaging agencies will still be closed on Election Day.

Rep. Neil Hansen, D-Ogden, said: "I want to raise a glass and toast this bill."

To which Rep. Kevin Garn, R-Layton, who was sitting in the speaker's chair conducting the session, said: "Rep. Hansen declares a conflict of interest."

Much laughing and applause and then SB167 passed 55-13.