Dear Source:
I haven't seen the full amendment as proposed but do note that according to the Governor's comments, "…In addition, this legislation will place an additional burden on the owner TO CHECK ALL PERSONS OVER 18 YEARS, EVEN MATURE ADULTS" (emphasis mine.)
As a restaurant/bar owner, I'm fully aware of the laws regarding underage drinking and serving of liquor to juveniles. Although my place is not a young "hangout" I certainly have checked IDs on a couple of occasions over the years and will continue to do so. On the other hand I have on a couple of occasions nicely taken away the car keys of some very mature drinkers who've arrived at my place with way too many already under the belt and who are obviously incapable of driving, persuading them without incident to leave their vehicle here and take a taxi.
If this amendment, as seems to be indicated by the Governor's comment, stipulates that EVERY customer has to be ID'd then of course I would have a problem with that as an owner. Also, as a 60 year old, I would have a problem being forced to show my ID whenever I go out to dinner! The law is already on the books. If bar owners choose to ignore the law and are caught then the onus is upon them and penalties will ensue. Maybe if law enforcement officers once in a while conducted unannounced checks at the known "young hangout" places then those bar owners who flout the law with impunity will shape up!
Anna Clarke
St. Thomas
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