In Louisiana, the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays is prohibited by law. This prohibition applies to all types of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits. The only exception to this rule is for the sale of alcoholic beverages at restaurants that have a food permit and that derive at least 51% of their gross revenue from the sale of food.
History of Sunday Liquor Sales Prohibition in Louisiana
The prohibition on the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays in Louisiana dates back to the early 20th century. In 1908, the Louisiana legislature passed a law that prohibited the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays between the hours of 1 a.m. and 6 p.m. This law was later amended in 1986 to extend the prohibition to all hours of the day.
The prohibition on Sunday liquor sales in Louisiana has been the subject of much debate over the years. Proponents of the prohibition argue that it helps to reduce drunk driving and other alcohol-related crimes. They also argue that it promotes family values and encourages people to spend time with their families on Sundays.
Opponents of the prohibition argue that it is outdated and unnecessary. They point out that the vast majority of people who drink alcohol do so responsibly and that the prohibition does not prevent people from drinking on Sundays. They also argue that the prohibition hurts businesses that rely on alcohol sales on Sundays.
Current Status of Sunday Liquor Sales Prohibition in Louisiana
The prohibition on the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays in Louisiana remains in effect today. However, there have been several recent attempts to repeal the prohibition. In 2016, the Louisiana legislature passed a bill that would have allowed the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays in certain parishes. However, the bill was vetoed by Governor John Bel Edwards.
In 2018, the Louisiana legislature passed a bill that would have allowed the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays in all parishes. However, the bill was again vetoed by Governor Edwards.
The future of Sunday liquor sales in Louisiana is uncertain. However, it is likely that the prohibition will remain in effect for the foreseeable future.
Tips for Buying Liquor on Sunday in Louisiana
If you are looking to buy liquor on Sunday in Louisiana, there are a few things you can do:
- Check with local restaurants. Some restaurants in Louisiana are allowed to sell alcoholic beverages on Sundays. You can call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to see if they offer this service.
- Buy alcohol out of state. If you are traveling to Louisiana from another state, you can purchase alcohol in your home state and bring it with you. However, you should be aware that there are limits on the amount of alcohol you can bring into Louisiana.
- Order alcohol online. There are several online retailers that sell alcohol and deliver to Louisiana. However, you should be aware that shipping costs can be high.
Pros and Cons of Sunday Liquor Sales Ban in Louisiana
Pros:
- Reduced drunk driving: Studies have shown that Sunday liquor sales bans can help to reduce drunk driving and other alcohol-related crimes.
- Promotes family values: Sunday liquor sales bans can help to promote family values and encourage people to spend time with their families on Sundays.
- Protects businesses: Sunday liquor sales bans can help to protect businesses that rely on alcohol sales on other days of the week.
Cons:
- Outdated and unnecessary: Sunday liquor sales bans are outdated and unnecessary. The vast majority of people who drink alcohol do so responsibly and the prohibition does not prevent people from drinking on Sundays.
- Hurts businesses: Sunday liquor sales bans hurt businesses that rely on alcohol sales on Sundays.
- Inconvenient for consumers: Sunday liquor sales bans are inconvenient for consumers who want to buy alcohol on Sundays.
Conclusion
The prohibition on the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays in Louisiana is a controversial issue. There are both pros and cons to the prohibition, and it is ultimately up to each individual to decide whether or not they support it.
