The proposed bill prohibiting the sale of cold beer did not have a long shelf life as the sponsor of the bill, Rep. Ron Gant (R-TN) is already changing the language of it. 

Last week, a bill (HB 2945) banning the sale of cold beer got a lot of attention. The original language of the bill stated, “as introduced, prohibits a beer permittee from selling at retail refrigerated or cold beer.” The goal was to prevent the temptation of drunk driving by eliminating cold beer; however, room-temperature beer would still be available for purchase.  

Gas station and other store owners voiced their concerns after learning of this proposed bill. Many feared this would hurt their business. After hearing concerns and facing the backlash, Gant has decided to change the bill. Gant stated he did not want the bill to infringe on law-abiding citizens or be unfair to businesses. 

In a statement, Gant said, “I believe we can find proactive, common-sense ways that keep our roadways safe and prevent drunk driving fatalities in Tennessee.”

The language of the bill is said to be changing. Gant stated the bill will require the Tennessee Impaired Driving Council to develop a report about impaired driving in Tennessee and include recommendations to decrease drunk-driving deaths. The Alcoholic Beverage Commission will also provide a report about alcohol and its effect on Tennesseans. The commission will also work with law enforcement to streamline responses to fatal crashes involving alcohol and trace where the offender got the alcohol from. A taskforce is also being considered that would find ways to combat drunk-driving statewide. The goal of the original bill was to raise awareness and provide preventative measures to decrease drunk-driving. 

Gant was reportedly a victim of drunk-driving which is why he wants to be a voice for the victims. A few years ago, Gant was hit head-on by a suspected drunk-driver and nearly died. He sustained multiple injuries including a shattered hip. 

As of now, the bill will no longer include the ban of cold beer sales. Indiana is currently the only state that prohibits the sale of cold beer. 

The Indiana Petroleum Marketers and the Convenience Store Association are currently challenging this law in federal court.