Over the last couple of years Utah has been changing their liquor laws to be less restrictive. In 2008 and 2009 Gov. Huntsman loosened the laws by getting rid of the membership restriction that required bar patrons to purchase a club membership before entering any bar that served liquor. Starting on July 1, 2011 new liquor laws will take effect and businesses will now be able to start selling bottles on Sundays, along with other changes. Although things continue to get more lenient in Utah for liquor businesses they are still much more conservative than most areas. Businesses are still prohibited from serving doubles, or more than one-and-a-half ounces of liquor at a time. There are also rules that require restaurants to put up a partition between bartenders and the public. Utah is obviously still aimed at limiting alcohol consumption and have stated that they do not want the tourist industry in Utah to be focused on alcohol.
Looser Liquor Does Not Equal Looser DUI Laws
With liquor laws loosening it is important to remember that Utah’s DUI laws have not changed. Not only does Utah still have a desire to limit alcohol consumption the Utah DUI laws are very unforgiving to DUI offenders. A first offense could involve jail time and later offenses will be even harsher. As the state makes it easier to become intoxicated they are relying on the discretion of individuals to make sure that looser liquor laws doesn’t make for increased DUI cases.
DUI Defense Attorney
You should never put your life or the lives of others in danger by driving drunk. If you have made the wrong decision and have been charged with a DUI be sure to make only right decision from now on, and call a Utah DUI Attorney. A Salcido Law Firm criminal defense lawyer will protect your rights and fight hard to get the best outcome available to you. Call 801.413.1753 to have a free consultation with an attorney today.
