Cheers To Change As Minnesota Considers Grandparents Happy Hour

There's a bill that's been introduced in the Minnesota Legislature that would allow retirement and assisted living homes to serve happy hour. As it stands now, these facilities aren't allowed under state law to serve alcohol because they don't have a liquor license.

Grandparents' Happy Hour Bill

Some representatives believe that a senior care facility shouldn't need a permit to serve its guests alcohol. The bill, called "Grandparents' Happy Hour," was approved by the House Commerce, Finance, and Policy Committee and sent to the House floor.

Proponents of the bill say that require a liquor license is just red tape without value. There are already safeguards in place to monitor medication interactions, document resident choices, and supervise residents with impaired judgment.

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The bill would allow nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and boarding care homes to serve alcohol to guests during activities or happy hour events. The facilities would have to notify the state of these events and take other precautionary steps.

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Can You Bring Alcohol Into A Retirement Home?

Guests can bring alcohol into retirement homes and assisted living facilities only if the facility allows it. Be sure to check with the care facility to make sure you're not violating policy. The state doesn't have any restrictions against bringing alcohol; it's handled by the facility. The new law would allow the facilities to serve alcohol provided by the institution.