People weigh in on Sunday alcohol sales

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Indiana is the last state in the nation to bar retail alcohol sales on Sunday. But two bills in this legislative session are trying to change that.

Football game parties are about having fun, being with friends and rooting for your favorite team.

You don't want to have to worry about running out of supplies, especially when you’re hosting.

“We have one every year. All of us military people get together and have a party,” said Mary Tarrh, host of a big game party.

So people sweep liquor stores Saturday in prep for Sunday. And Mary Tarrh was no different.

“Sometimes it’s a hindrance, yes. Because you can go across state lines and grab you whatever you want to grab, and we’re still stuck in the 1800s,” said Mary.

She prepared ahead of time because she knew it was coming.

Lawmakers say allowing alcohol sales would bring in more tax revenue for the state.

But some liquor store owners argue allowing Sunday sales would increase their overhead costs.

They also worry more people would buy alcohol while grocery shopping instead of making the extra trip to their store.

The Senate bill's author, Senator Phil Boots argues the bill is a money maker. It would allegedly bring in 10 million annually if it passes.

The House bill's author, Rep Sean Eberhart said it's silly that the current law allows Sunday carryout sales at restaurants.

Mary thinks it's not about religion or working on Sundays. It's about freedom.

“Why can’t we guy alcohol on Sundays? It’s our right,” said Mary.

Indiana's ban on retail alcohol sales dates back to the Prohibition. No date has been set for either the Senate or the House bill.