Just when people are looking for less government intrusion into their lives, Big Brother has stepped into the middle of alcoholic beverage laws in Indiana.
Although the law doesn't take effect until July 1, some retail liquor stores have started to enforce it as a way of getting in the habit.
The law requires those selling carryout liquor to require all purchasers to show a valid photo ID. No excuses. Because the law is extremely vague as to whether those appearing to be over 50 need to be carded, some retailers are saying they will card everyone -- no exceptions.
The new law is intended to virtually eliminate the sales of alcohol to minors. While we, too, are adamant about enforcing the laws prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages to minors, the state of Indiana has gone too far.
Simply put, the new law isn't needed. There is no need to card someone who looks 30, 40, 50 or older.
Such a needless law will slow checkout and anger some customers who don't care to share their personal information to someone selling them a six-pack of beer.
The Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers supports the new law to "leave little room for error when underage youth attempt to make an illegal purchase."
Besides the absurdity of asking older adults to show identification, the law also makes it a Class B misdemeanor -- punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine -- for anyone who fails to ask for a purchaser's ID.
The current law seems to be fine. And it is based on common sense. If there is doubt as to whether the purchaser is 21, then an ID must be checked.
But to ask for the ID of someone clearly older than 21 is unnecessary and insulting.
Little was said about the bill when it was passed earlier this year, since it was part of an omnibus alcoholic beverage bill. There is plenty being said now, and the Legislature next year should right the wrong it has created.