This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Utah's recently enacted liquor laws have taken an odd turn, leaving many citizens outraged about laws that further restrict what some call fun.
For example, Utah bars licensed after January 2010 will soon have to raise a screen between their bartenders and minors, who may otherwise jump the bar and drink the entire arsenal of gin and tonic dry. Another law will require beer-only eateries to prepare drinks in the back room.
The absurdity of these laws is more than apparent, as a biased Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission remains the only state board with no representative of the industry it is constricting (at least three members are teetotalers and one a self-described social drinker; none have any experience in the hospitality industry). With the recent appointment of the fifth board member unfamiliar with the product or business she oversees, it is unlikely that the board's decisions will undergo any substantial change without significant opposition from the public.
Citizens, exercise your First Amendment right and protest. Stand on corners with signs. Participate in the Utah Undie Run 2011 on Sept. 24 to "protest against Utah being so uptight" (it's on Facebook). Shave your legs and paint messages on your body. Speak out!
Andreo Micic
Salt Lake City