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Indiana's county fairs allowed alcohol service areas starting July 1

Starting July 1, Senate Bill 23, co-authored by Sen. Brett Clark, R-Avon, and Sen. Ron Alting, R-Lafayette, would allow alcohol usage at local county fairs.

It passed unanimously in the Senate Public Policy Committee.

“Historically, Indiana county fairs have been alcohol free, but this bill allows for designated alcohol service areas,” said Alting. “It’s open to up to 92 counties if they would like to have a designated place to serve alcohol, and counties can still choose to remain alcohol free if they prefer.”

This bill would also give local organizations an opportunity to hold events with the addition of alcohol, but there would be an application process in place and terms set for a permit. There would be no fee for a permit, which would last for a year.

Overall, this bill aims to help financially struggling county fairs by generating additional income. But the bill still requires approval from city or county councils and mayors.