Bill allowing alcohol sales in old theaters goes to Senate

Legislation to allow Idaho theaters on the National Register of Historic Places to obtain licenses to sell beer and wine is going to the Senate.

The Senate State Affairs Committee on Friday voted 6-2 to approve the legislation that applies to theaters built before 1950. Besides providing entertainment, the theaters also hold such things as weddings and community events.

Democratic House Minority Leader Mat Erpelding says there are currently only five theaters in the state that would be affected by the law, but about a dozen in all could eventually qualify.

The proposed legislation will add an exception in Idaho law to allow the theaters to sell beer and wine when minors are present.

Backers of the bill say it will help the historic theaters remain financially viable by being able to sell beverages.