Senate OKs change in alcohol permit law for special events

Senate OKs change in alcohol permit law for special events

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SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Senate has given preliminary approval to a bill that one lawmaker says would save the state embarrassment when it comes to issuing an alcohol permit for Snowbird's annual Oktoberfest.

HB13 clarifies how the state alcohol commission considers permits for special events. Instead of saying the commission "may" grant the permit, the law would say "shall" grant the permit if the entity meets the qualifications.

Controversy over single-event permits arose in 2014 when the alcohol commission debated whether to give Snowbird a license for its annual Brewfest. The commission issued the permit, but it signaled the law could threaten other events such as Oktoberfest, the Utah Arts Festival and the Greek Festival.

Sen. Howard Stephenson, R-Draper, noted that incident made international news.

"I don't think you could even hold Oktoberfest without beer," he said.

The House and Senate have approved the bill. It now goes to the governor for consideration.

"If this passes, we can be assured that Utah will never be embarrassed again by denying Oktoberfest a beer permit," said Stephenson, the Senate sponsor of the bill.

The measure also aims to make sure children aren't served alcohol, adults aren't overserved and that the venue is appropriate for the event.

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An attorney for a family who claims excessive drinkingat Oktoberfest prompted three men to attack them called for the event's liquor license to be suspended or revoked last month.

Jim McConkie, who represents the South Ogden couple suing Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort, told the state alcohol commission that an investigator working with him on the lawsuit witnessed a host of troubling activity while attending Oktoberfest undercover.

Tom Jones, Snowbird senior vice president, told commissioners that the resort makes great efforts to ensure the event is safe, including Snowbird security and Unified police patrols and free rides home for anyone who asks.

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Dennis Romboy

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