Alcohol fans are being alerted to a new regulation that may lead to being refused service when attempting to purchase their next drink.
The updated law mandates that all bars, restaurants, and breweries verify identification for every alcohol transaction without exceptions.
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Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, enacted the ordinance in December to broaden mandatory ID checks for alcohol purchases.
This regulation commenced on March 1. Prior to this update, ID checks were only necessary at liquor stores.
Now, whether you’re 25 or 65, you should not expect to obtain a drink without presenting your ID.
The adjustment aims to curb underage drinking and stop alcohol sales to individuals with restricted licenses, which are identified with a “red stripe” due to past alcohol-related offenses, as reported by Alaska News Source.
Currently, around 2,210 Anchorage residents hold restricted licenses and are prohibited from purchasing alcohol due to violent or reckless behavior.
In support of this change, lawmakers noted that the state has the second-highest rate of alcohol-related mortality in the United States.
From 2015 to 2019, an average of 562 Alaskans died annually from alcohol-related causes.
Additionally, 29% of fatal crashes in the state occurred in Anchorage, according to data from Alaska’s Department of Transportation.
“Among several alcohol-related issues, we witnessed numerous pedestrian fatalities,” Assembly Member Zac Johnson, a sponsor of the ordinance, remarked.
“You might be in your 70s, but if you have that red stripe, it’s still a concern. That’s the blind spot we need to address.”
“If you’re not verifying everyone’s ID, how can you ensure that those individuals with red stripes aren’t being served?”
Businesses are adapting to this new requirement, and the response has been varied.
Mary Rosenzweig, co-owner of Turnagain Brewing, mentioned that customers are generally compliant, although many have expressed frustration about the added hassle.
“So far, no one has been overly angry,” she added.
Assembly Member Karen Bronga, who advocated for the new measure, emphasized its importance for public safety, though some patrons have reacted negatively, according to Anchorage Daily News.
One man over 60 even reached out to her via email, unhappy about being asked for ID.
Businesses are also facing logistical challenges, as even employees must present their ID to enjoy a drink after their shifts.
“Everyone must provide ID, even those who work there,” Rosenzweig explained.
Alternative ways to get home if impaired
Driving while impaired is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. Here are some suggestions from AAA for getting home safely if you have overindulged.
- Designate a designated driver (DD). If you’re celebrating with friends, decide who will safely drive everyone home. To prevent any accidents, have the DD collect all keys at the start of the evening.
- Use public transportation. Depending on your area, you may take a bus, monorail, shuttle, or train home. Although there may be a fare, it’s far less costly than a DUI or a life lost.
- Select a ride-sharing service. Uber or Lyft are excellent choices. If you’ve never used these services before, set up your account and download the app before the celebrations. Taxis are another viable option.
- If you reside in FL, GA, IA, MI, ND, NE, TN, WI, CO (Denver), NC (Charlotte), or IN (Fort Wayne/South Bend), you can call AAA’s Tow 2 Go at (855) 2-TOW-2-GO.
Source: AAA
To monitor who has been IDed, Turnagain Brewing has developed hand stamps featuring the brewery’s salmon logo.
Naomi Stock, taproom manager at Onsite Brewing, mentioned that the changes are unclear and expressed concerns about tourists who often do not adhere to local regulations.
The Alaska Cabaret, Hotel, Restaurant, and Retailers Association (CHARR) has also expressed worries regarding the increased pressure on businesses, especially during staffing shortages.
They cautioned that the new law might delay service during peak hours at busy establishments.
There is also some uncertainty regarding what qualifies as valid identification.
Residents with restricted licenses can present a passport or another form of ID rather than their red-striped identification.
Bronga acknowledged that this law could be inconvenient but maintained that it would be a success if it helps avert an alcohol-related tragedy.
Some businesses, such as Onsite Brewing, are proactively preparing customers by displaying signs in advance.
