SB 236 Summary

• Repeals provisions prohibiting illegal influence in permit issuance and enforcement of illegal influence penalties, streamlining permit application procedures.

• Restructures penalties for direct wine seller violations, classifying unauthorized sales as Class A infractions with enhanced penalties (Class A misdemeanor for one prior offense, Level 6 felony for two or more prior offenses within 10 years).

• Reclassifies minor violations related to possession and consumption of alcohol, changing certain offenses from misdemeanors to infractions and adding discretionary driver's license suspension authority.

• Expands artisan distiller permit requirements and prohibitions, including production limits, sales restrictions, blending requirements (60% minimum self-produced liquor), and penalties for violations.

• Adds new statutory cross-references in criminal code defining numerous alcohol and tobacco violations across IC 7.1 as crimes, and repeals obsolete provisions regarding habitual drunkards, inmates, and train/boat beverage transportation.