Controversial New Proposal: Beer Sales at Gun Shows

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is gauging public opinion on a proposal that would allow gun shows to sell alcohol to their attendees. Although the state currently has rules against the practice, one Texan gun club recently requested reconsideration.

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Under the proposal, any show allowing alcohol would have to meet the following criteria:

  1. No live ammunition sales.
  2. All guns must be disabled.
  3. Customers may not leave with purchased alcohol.

It should be noted that it is not uncommon for food trucks to serve non-alcoholic drinks at gun shows. At one show Saturday in Ennis, TX, a local reporter asked a couple of vendors for their take on the proposal.

Mike Garrett, a regular seller, says, “It makes absolutely no sense to me, I mean you’re teaching people who it’s okay to have a few beers and then pick up a gun and walk around.”

Kim Perrymore, on the other hand, sees no problem with the proposal. She says that a drink limit coupled with security would keep people responsible and safe. Perrymore even suggests that serving alcohol may boost sales. “I’m not very big on beer sales, but I know if you get rid of a little bit of inhibition, people spend more money. That’s just the way it works.”

Show promotor Dana Wood claimed that instead of increasing sales, serving alcohol may actually backfire. She says, “I choose to have family friendly events. [Selling alcohol] really muddies the water and it’s not necessary.”

The state of Texas is currently accepting public comments and will be hearing them throughout the next month.

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