Change in Law Allows Minors into Restaurant Bars
A longstanding Indiana law has changed, effective July 1, in an effort to expand family dining space in Hoosier restaurants. The law previously prohibited minors under 18 years of age from dining in the bar area of a restaurant. But now, families will be able to dine with their minor children under age 18 in a bar area – but for the sole purpose of consuming food.
“The law is still restrictive in that the minor child must be in the company of a parent, guardian or family member who is 21 years of age or older, seated at a table or booth, and the minor is there for dining only,” said Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commissioner Jessica Allen.
Minor children may not be seated at the bar top, and the establishment must have a retail alcohol permit to allow family dining in a bar area. Bars and taverns that allow smoking may not allow any minors on the premises at any time.
Previously, the law allowed minors ages 18 to 20 seating in a bar area specifically for dining only. The amendment removes the age limit.
The Commission issues and regulates permits for the manufacture, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages throughout the State of Indiana. In addition to alcoholic beverage permits for business and facilities, the Commission issues and regulates the employee permits for bartenders, waiters, waitresses, salespersons, and clerks who sell, serve, or dispense alcoholic beverages in the State of Indiana. The Commission is also charged with issuing and regulating tobacco retailers, distributors, and manufacturers. The Indiana Alcoholic Beverage Commission was created by an Act of the Indiana General Assembly in 1933, following the repeal of Prohibition. Effective July 1, 2001, the agency’s name was changed to the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission.
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