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SB 23

Alcoholic beverage permits for county fairs.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Alting and 12 co-sponsors

Indiana law now permits county fairs to obtain alcoholic beverage licenses and serve alcohol at fair events, streamlining approval for these traditional community gatherings.

Public Law 6
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Bill Summary · SB 23

Legislative bill overview

SB 23 permits county fairs in Indiana to obtain alcoholic beverage licenses and serve alcohol at fair events. The bill streamlines the approval process specifically for county fair organizations, likely reducing regulatory barriers they currently face when seeking to serve beverages at their annual events.

Why is this important

County fairs generate significant revenue through food and beverage sales, and alcohol service is a common practice at similar events nationwide. This change could increase fair revenues, improve competitiveness with other entertainment venues, and potentially strengthen the financial sustainability of county fair operations—many of which serve educational and community functions.

Potential points of contention

  • Public health concerns: Opponents may worry about increased alcohol availability in family-oriented settings, underage access, or impaired driving risks near fairgrounds
  • Regulatory standardization: Questions about whether county fairs should receive expedited permitting compared to other venues, and whether this creates inconsistent enforcement of alcohol regulations
  • Local control: Some counties or municipalities may prefer retaining authority to prohibit alcohol at fairs within their jurisdictions rather than having state law override local decisions

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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