The Indiana legislature today voted to end a ban on Sunday sales of alcohol which dated back to the founding of the state in 1820. Gov. Eric Holcomb has indicated he will quickly sign the legislation, which would make Indiana the 41st state to allow Sunday sales.
“The Indiana legislature today voted to end one of the last remnants of Prohibition,” said Distilled Spirits Council Vice President Dale Szyndrowski. “Hoosiers want a modern marketplace that allows alcohol sales on Sunday – just like in neighboring states. It is important that shoppers be able to buy from local businesses and invest their tax dollars in Indiana, instead of making a trip across the border.”
According to an economic analysis, statewide Sunday sales of alcohol in Indiana could generate between $7.7 and $11.5 million in new tax revenues for the state. In addition, Sunday sales would increase Indiana sales volume by an estimated 4% to 6% annually, which translates to $3.3 million to $5 million in new retail sales.
Last year, Minnesota and Oklahoma also voted to allow Sunday alcohol sales. Since 2002, 19 states have passed Sunday sales legislation bringing the total to 41 states across the country.