Consumption Rising, Demanding Legislative Action

Although key members of the Legislature for years have tried to control consumption by restricting the number of alcohol licenses available to restaurants, bars and clubs, an inevitable demographic change and
the push for more economic development could help reshape that longtime policy.

Under current law, each outlet must have a liquor permit, tying up dozens of licenses and creating shortages, which lawmakers generally have been unwilling to remedy, citing concerns about drunk driving, underage drinking and over-consumption.

A lack of available licenses has stopped some chains from entering the market and others from expanding, drawing the attention of everyone from the governor to business owners left out in cold by a lack of permits.

The increase in per capita consumption in Utah is for all types of alcohol, including wine, beer and spirits. Salt Lake Tribune