INDIANAPOLIS — This state's distinction of having one of the last dry state fairs could end if legislation clears the Indiana House.
The bill would allow the Indiana State Fair to sell beer, wine and liquor for the first time since 1947. Indiana and North Carolina are the only two states that don't allow drinking during their state fairs. North Carolina allows fairgoers to sample wine and buy bottles of wine for home consumption.
Fair officials say they want to showcase beer, wine and distilled spirits just like other products of Indiana agriculture. Opponents question the safety of the measure and worry it could threaten the fair's family atmosphere.
The state Senate passed the bill 33-13. The bill Monday cleared the second of its required three readings in the House.