Debate over age stalls Casper's plan to change liquor laws

It’s a matter of phrasing.

Does “over 18” mean 18 years and one second, or 19?

During its winter session, the state Legislature amended a law dealing with dispensing rooms, where licensed establishments can serve alcohol, to make it less restrictive.

In an effort to play nice with liquor dealers, Casper’s city staff is trying to amend its own ordinance governing dispensing rooms. But that work has stalled over the question of age.

The new state law effectively eliminates dispensing rooms, widely seen as an archaic concept that fails to meaningfully keep the underage from being exposed to alcohol but still imposes a burden on owners who must erect railings or low walls around bars in buildings that also house all-ages restaurants.

Read more: http://trib.com/news/local/casper/debate-over-age-stalls-casper-s-plan-to-change-liquor/article_60fcb8e5-1105-5d12-ad84-64538eaeba6f.html