A new bill in Ohio is proposing that high-demand liquor bottles be opened at the time of sale. This bill, which aims to combat theft and counterfeiting of expensive liquor bottles, would require retailers to open bottles priced at $75 or higher before the customer leaves the store. The bill, sponsored by Republican Representative Riordan McClain, was introduced in response to an increase in thefts of high-end liquors such as Scotch and bourbon.
Under the proposed legislation, customers would be able to sample the liquor before purchasing to ensure its quality and authenticity. Retailers would also be required to keep records of the bottles they open and sell to help track inventory and prevent fraud. The bill has received support from industry groups like the Ohio Council of Retail Merchants, who believe that opening bottles would deter thieves and protect businesses from losses due to liquor theft.
Opponents of the bill argue that it could inconvenience customers and create extra work for retailers. Some believe that the measure is unnecessary and that retailers already have the option to open bottles for customers if they suspect foul play. However, McClain and supporters of the bill argue that the practice of opening high-demand liquor bottles is becoming increasingly common in other states and has proven effective in reducing theft and fraud.
If the bill passes, Ohio would join other states like Alabama and Nevada in implementing similar measures to protect high-end liquor sales. The bill is currently under consideration in the Ohio House of Representatives and will be the subject of further debate and revisions before potentially becoming law.
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