On a social page of the internet, one astute observer commented, “Who would have ever dreamed that the temples would be closed, and the liquor stores open?” This insight does capture how upside-down many things are as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
From my days in government, I learned early that one should never let a crisis go by without some effort to change something. In that vein, I have a suggestion for the Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverages and the governor who appointed the DABC Commissioners. Let’s move into the 21st century.
In a time when almost anything legal (and unfortunately some things illegal) can be ordered, paid for and delivery arranged through the internet, I find it remarkable during this real crisis I had to stand in line for more than 30 minutes to purchase my “essential” liquor. Now, I recognize probably at least of half of Utah’s population won’t consider liquor as an “essential.” But, each of the directives/orders from our elected officials have included liquor in the essential column.
So, my question is, mostly for safety and health reasons, why can’t I go on the DABC’s web page, order, pay with a credit card and receive a day, time and location when I could pick up my liquor order, only after I showed my Utah or other official driver’s license to verify I am over 21?
We imbibers contribute $191 million to the state’s tax revenue stream. Don’t you think it would be efficient in the context of being the “best managed state" if we allowed online purchases? Indeed, with the increase in sales, Utah’s tax revenue would increase.
While I waited my 30 minutes, I observed repeatedly people not able to maintain their appropriate six-foot distance. And then, when I finally made it into the store (where the number was properly limited to 25), any effort at social distancing was lost, given the narrow aisles and ill-designed premises.
And, as I checked out, the wonderful cashier, who had no plexiglass between her and me as many grocery stores have installed, looked exhausted. I asked if I could give her a tip, given the less-than-livable wage she was paid. She said, “No, tipping is not allowed.”
I have personally given a tip to grocery store clerks and some health care workers as a small sign of my appreciation of their essential work during this pandemic. Why can’t I do the same for the DABC workers, who are paid non-livable wages, have no health insurance and often have untenable schedules? (Yes, they do get Sundays off. But a potential six-day work week is neither good nor healthy.)
You often find in grocery stores jars where they collect cash for a worthy cause. Maybe the DABC could place a large container labeled “Pandemic Crisis Donations for DABC Workers.” Just a thought.
So, let’s use this pandemic crisis to move Utah into the 21st century. Let’s establish online liquor ordering with proper age identification. Let’s increase the tax revenues by using modern technology. Let’s be able to recognize the DABC workforce doing their essential work by giving them tips in an organized manner, and maybe even think about paying them a living wage with health insurance.
It is time we come together, support one another and make Utah “A Pretty Great State” again.
Patrick A. Shea
Patrick A. Shea, Salt Lake City, is an attorney and a research professor of biology at the University of Utah.