Local alcohol vendors and consumers have mixed views on a new Indiana law that will require stores to ask for a photo ID to anyone purchasing alcohol. Bars and restaurants are exempt from the new law, except for those that have carry-out.
Section 12 of SB75, which will take effect July 1, was created as an effort to end underage consumption and take the pressure off vendors in judging the age of consumers.
Lloyd Kendall, a clerk at one of the Muncie Liquor Stores in Muncie, said the store where he works will adopt the new law in two weeks to "get into the habit of asking." Failing to ask for an ID makes it a Class B Misdemeanor, with penalties of up to $1,000 and up to 180 days in jail.
Some chain stores like Speedway or Village Pantry have used a similar policy since February as a result of an Indiana Excise police sting operation, which found that undercover minors were able to buy alcohol from convenience stores and gas stations, according to the Associated Press.
Kendall said that although some consumers will not be happy with the new requirement, it will make his job easier.
"It becomes more complicated for our older consumers," he said. "But it makes our jobs easier. It takes away the idea of having to judge people at the entrance."
Joyce Fisher, a clerk at Madison Street Liquor Store, said she thought the new law is unnecessary and will make some of the costumers uncomfortable.
"It doesn't make much sense for older people that you know for years," she said. "I think they will feel like you are invading their privacy."
Brian Fickle, co-owner of the Fickle Peach, said he doubts the new law will prevent minors from consuming alcohol.
"I think it's kind of silly," he said. "I don't think it's going to stop anyone that's wanting to consume alcohol."
Consumers were also skeptic about whether there will be a decrease in the number of minor consumption.
"It's good to ID everyone, but if they look over 40, then that's too much," senior architecture major Anna Schneider said. "I think they're fussing about something they shouldn't."
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