In recent days, opposition has been leveled against Senate Bill 132, a bill that would raise the percentage of alcohol in beer from 3.2 to 4.8.
It’s absolutely vital to pass this legislation and bring Utah in line with the rest of the country. 3.2 beer is a thing of the past, which is already making it very difficult for grocery and convenience stores to get an adequate beer supply.
I don’t drink, but I firmly believe in free agency. People should be allowed to make decisions and choose their own path. It’s up to those who drink, not the government, to make sure they are doing so in a responsible manner. We are a free society and out-of-touch attempts to legislate morality via message bills or keeping old relics like 3.2 beer rob all individuals of their agency. This must stop.
We risk being the only state still offering 3.2 beer. Utah prides itself on a being a pro-business state and, as such, there are times when changes have to be made to maintain economic competitiveness. This is one of those times.
Ryan D. Curtis, Salt Lake City