No more votes on Sunday sales?

NORWALK — A pair of Ohio lawmakers recently introduced legislation that would let local governments approve Sunday liquor sales without a local vote. House Bill 387 was proposed by state Rep. Mark Sigrist, D-Grove City, and state Rep. Jack K. Daniels, R-New Franklin. The bill is additionally co-sponsored by 21 other state representatives, including Kellie Deeter, R-Norwalk. Under current Ohio law, businesses that wish to sell liquor on Sundays are required to obtain a special "D-6" permit to do so. The only way businesses can obtain these permits is by having voters approve each one through a local option election. The bipartisan bill, if approved, states that it would allow "the legislative authority of a municipal corporation or the board of township trustees" to exempt businesses from the ballot requirement and permit them to sell liquor on Sundays. Daniels provided the following statement in support of House Bill 387: For over 52 years, Ohio has gradually peeled away its remaining blue‑law restrictions. I'm proud to co‑sponsor House Bill 387 because it removes needless red tape by allowing townships and municipalities to authorize Sunday liquor sales without having to hold another local‑option election. That means if a community board already supports Sunday sales, they won't need to ask voters again — saving time, money and hassle. The vast majority of Sunday sales measures have passed at the ballot box, typically by substantial margins, showing strong and consistent public support. House Bill 387 is simply the next logical step in modernizing our laws, respecting voters' choices and helping local businesses thrive. Brett Vike, a legislative aide for Deeter, said that Deeter co-sponsored House Bill 387 for the following three reasons: • "When it comes up for a vote, it is often the only thing on the ballot, which leads to unnecessary expenses for local election boards." • "It is more flexible and convenient for consumers and will boost business for business owners." • "The decision, while not made by voters, is made by local elected officials, meaning that local control is maintained." Emails seeking comment sent to state Rep. D.J. Swearingen, R-Huron, Sigrist, and state Rep. Gary Click, R-Vickery, were not answered by deadline. House Bill 387 was introduced to the Ohio House on July 1. It is unclear if and when a hearing could be scheduled for the bill. Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct what city Daniels hails from.