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Brown: Bill to support restaurants and bars passes Senate

STATEHOUSE (Feb. 9, 2023) – A bill authored by State Sen. Liz Brown (R-Fort Wayne) that would lift certain restrictions on patrons passed the Senate today by a vote of 39-10.

Senate Bill 20 would allow patrons at a bar or restaurant to take refreshments from the establishment in a protected cup in specified areas.

"I've authored this legislation the last few sessions because it is another opportunity to revitalize our downtowns and increase tourism," Brown said. "This legislation would provide guidelines for our local municipalities to follow while allow them to expand the footprint for their outdoor festivals and events."

SB 20 would allow a municipality to designate an area as a "Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area" for certain locations in their city or town

"There are areas in Fort Wayne, like our downtown and GE Works, that will benefit greatly from this legislation, especially during the summer months when fairs and festivals happen," Brown added.

SB 20 will now be considered by the House of Representatives.

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State Sen. Liz Brown (R-Fort Wayne) represents Senate District 15, which includes a
portion of Allen County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.