Committee upheld Sun. alcohol sales ban

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - A committee of state lawmakers voted to uphold Indiana's ban on Sunday alcohol sales late Tuesday afternoon.

It's a recommendation that comes at the end of a two-year examination of Indiana alcoholic beverage laws and, in this case, the status quo won.

Seven members of the 11-member legislative study committee voted to uphold the ban on Sunday sales.

They rejected arguments by drug stores, grocery stores and gas stations who argued that because Indiana permits alcohol sales in bars and restaurants on Sundays it should also allow carry out sales.

It’s a victory for package store owners who fought to keep the ban.

Rep. Trent Van Haaften (D-Mt. Vernon) said, "The information wasn't enough. Basically, when I say the information wasn't enough, the case wasn't made to change the law existing now."

Sen. Greg Taylor (D-Indianapolis) argued, "Sunday sales will increase access to alcohol for minors and everybody else."

The committee also voted to recommend against Sunday sales at microbreweries. The recommendations are just that.

Lawmakers can still consider Sunday sales once the legislature resumes in January.