The lobby group that represents Indiana’s package liquor stores says it supports Sunday retail alcohol sales.

The Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers today issued a statement that said it  “reaffirmed support”  for legislation that would change Indiana law to allow for the sale of alcohol for carryout on Sundays at retail locations like liquor stores and grocery stores.

The group issued the following statement:

  • “The time has come for Sunday sales.  We are eager to work together with legislators to successfully draft and pass meaningful and impactful public policy that will allow Hoosiers to purchase alcohol for carryout on Sundays for the first time since prohibition.    Alcohol is a dangerous product that can destroy lives, families, and communities.  We need strong regulations on the sale of alcohol products that allow for access while ensuring that it does not get into the wrong hands.  As responsible retailers, we remain committed to exceeding the needs and expectations of our loyal customers while also promoting an atmosphere of safety for our team members and all who enter our stores that goes above and beyond simply what is required by the state.  We owe this to the Indiana communities in which our stores reside. “

The group says it has always supported Sunday retail alcohol sales, with proper safeguards.

“Indiana’s ban on the carryout sale of alcohol on Sundays is antiquated and impacts the small business package liquor stores by forcing them to close their doors one day per week,” said Jon Sinder, Chairman of the Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers.  “We call on all stakeholders to work together to deliver results for Hoosiers.”   Sinder went on to say, “Indiana deserves a serious and comprehensive discussion about ways to meaningfully reform our alcohol laws that includes all stakeholders, from the factory to the end consumer.  We can achieve results by working together but we can never compromise on safety.”

This announcement precedes the fourth meeting of the state’s Alcohol Code Revision Commission which is scheduled to convene on Friday, October 10th.

This story will be updated.