Teton Commissioners address open container questions

Some confusion over existing state and local open container laws and regulations and a new alcoholic drink have prompted the Teton County, Wyoming Board of County Commissioners to hold a special public meeting Monday. The question surrounds a drink called “sloshies” which are now being served at several retail liquor license holders in unincorporated areas of Teton County. Sloshies are alcoholic drinks, primarily made with vodka, mixed with flavored ice. They are sold in cups with lids that are primarily drunk through a straw. As far as Teton County officials are concerned, Sloshies in a vehicle are open containers, unless they are placed out of reach of the driver, in a place like the trunk. Some retailers are talking about allowing them to be near a driver if the Sloshie has been appropriately sealed, in something like a plastic bag. Hand sealer devices are available to interested retailers. Teton County Prosecutor Keith Gingery is asking retailers to voluntarily use those devices if and until the county addresses the issue. In the meantime, he warned, sloshies in the hands of drivers will be considered an open container. A workshop to discuss the issue is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Monday in the County Commission Chambers. More details about the issue can be found here.