FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
STATEHOUSE (Jan. 22, 2026) — A bill authored by State Sen. Dan Dernulc (R-Highland) that would expand alcohol permits in specific areas of northwest Indiana passed the Senate Committee on Public Policy unanimously this week.
Senate Bill 89 would issue additional three-way alcohol permits to areas of northwest Indiana, including Schererville, Lafayette, West Lafayette and within transit development districts – areas around transit or train stations designated to promote transit-oriented development. Allowing more full-service restaurants to move into these areas will help spur economic development and grow local community assets.
"When I first filed this legislation, it was to advance Schererville and give more opportunities to restaurants in the town," Dernulc said. "I was happy to hear other areas in northwest Indiana were interested in expanding their alcohol permits, and I am proud to have them added into the bill. I hope adding more three-way alcohol permits will attract full-service restaurants that serve beer, wine and liquor, adding more variety to these areas of Indiana."
SB 89 will now move to the full Senate for further consideration.
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State Sen. Dan Dernulc (R-Highland) represents Senate District 1, which includes a portion of Lake County.
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Contact: Kristen Gorski, Press Secretary
Kristen.Gorski@iga.in.gov
317-232-9539
