MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A new Republican- introduced bill is looking to change requirements for who can serve alcohol in restaurants. Anyone as young as 14 years of age may someday be allowed to serve alcohol to a table.
“We’re not changing what jobs those kids can have,” Republican State Senator Rob Stafsholt said. “They’re already a server, they’re serving things.”
Stafsholt was one of two lawmakers who introduced the bill. He said he’s heard overwhelming support from his constituents and colleagues. Others say it’s not a change that the majority wants.
“No one is asking, that I’ve talked to, to allow minors and kids to serve alcohol,” Democratic State Representative Kristina Shelton said.
Kristina Shelton is opposed to the bill, citing the potential risks. Stafsholt said the bill was carefully drafted to be as safe as possible.
“It doesn’t allow them to deliver anything at the bar, requires licensed bartender still behind the bar and the establishment as a whole has to be licensed.”
Shelton says Wisconsin’s drinking culture is something that lawmakers need to be more considerate of.
“We have a high rate of people abusing alcohol and binge drinking. I think about our young children having to deal with drunk Wisconsinites and the impacts that will have on their mental health, their physical safety.”
Staffing shortages have affected bars and restaurants for years. Stafsholt said this bill is a simple solution to the problem.
“This came from the grassroots constituents coming to talk to us and saying hey this is a problem. I’ve got these people hired and I can’t find more people to hire. Often times what happens that I’m concerned about is it takes the bartender away from the bar.”
While Shelton agrees that there is a problem facing the industry, she said this isn’t the way to fix it.
“Drivers licenses for all and in-state tuition. There are real strategies that we should be moving forward with that address the workforce issue. People are facing barriers.”
Others have expressed their support or opposition on social media. State Senator Chris Larson said it’s the wrong approach for the state to take. The Tavern League of Wisconsin is encouraging people to contact lawmakers to support the bill.
Although no one under the age of 21 can legally drink alcohol, those under 21 — including minors of any age — in Wisconsin can drink in bars and restaurants if they are with their parents.
If the proposal passes, Wisconsin would have the lowest age limit for workers allowed to serve alcohol, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
The measure is a long way from becoming law. It must pass the Senate and Assembly, both controlled by Republicans, and be signed by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers.
