Illinois lawmakers look to repeal the ID requirement for alcohol purchases

States nationwide have enacted bills that require sales clerks at retailers that provide alcohol to ask for identification before making the sale. However, others are beginning to repeal those laws and want to eliminate the requirement of ID of those who look over 21 when purchasing alcohol.

Some lawmakers in Indiana are working to repeal an alcohol identification law that was enacted just last year, the Evansville Courier and Press reports.

Currently, each person who purchases alcohol must present proper ID to the seller, regardless of their age. If a retailer does not require the buyer to show ID they can be charged with a class D misdemeanor, which usually involves a fine.

However, the new bill introduced would eliminate the requirement that every buyer must present identification. Furthermore, the repeal would also remove the criminal penalties for clerks who do not card their customers.

Many local coalitions are in disagreement with this new proposal, as it might make it easier for minors to purchase alcohol. For instance, the Indiana Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking, the Indiana Association of Beverage Retailers and several area liquor stores have voiced their opposition of this repeal.

According to the 2008 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 28 percent of individuals between ages 12 and 20 reported consuming alcohol.