Taking care of seniors

The Herald-Times, Bloomington, Ind.: Hoosiers should raise a toast to at least one idea going through the Indiana General Assembly.

Language in an alcohol-related bill would allow Meadowood Retirement Community and similar facilities to serve alcohol without having to obtain a state permit. That’s important because it would keep the Indiana Excise Police from busting Happy Hours that might occur at these places.

Last April, that seemed to be possible, when excise officers told Meadowood officials they could no longer serve alcohol. But this language would add “senior residence facility” to places such as convention centers as locations that would not need an alcohol permit.

Wine Night

State Rep. Matt Pierce, D-Bloomington, worked with Meadowood residents who wanted to continue Tuesday Wine Night and Friday socials without interference from the state.

“When people hear the story of excise police coming to take away alcohol from seniors, they get a chuckle,” Pierce said. “And then they say, ‘Well, that’s a little ridiculous,’ and understand that’s not our best use of resources.”

He’s certainly right. Hopefully, the rest of the Legislature will realize it.