Relating to requiring the use of electronically readable information to verify a purchaser's age in the retail sale of alcoholic beverages.
The bill would amend the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code, specifically section 109.61, introducing new provisions regarding age verification. It establishes that failure to use electronically readable information cannot be penalized under certain conditions, such as internet connectivity issues or if the purchaser is 40 years or older. This change is intended to both protect retailers from unfair penalties and ensure compliance with age verification protocols, which is crucial for reducing underage drinking.
Senate Bill 650, known as the Deshawn Jagwan Act, aims to enhance the process of verifying the age of purchasers in retail alcohol sales by requiring the use of electronically readable information from identification documents. The bill mandates that retailers visually inspect and access electronically readable information on a driver's license, commercial driver's license, or identification certificate to verify a customer's age, thereby modernizing the age verification process and potentially reducing instances of underage alcohol sales. The requirement to implement electronic checking is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Overall, there seems to be a positive sentiment towards SB650, with supporters highlighting the bill's potential effectiveness in preventing underage alcohol sales and modernizing identification procedures. The emphasis on using technology in age verification has been received well by many legislators concerned with alcohol regulation and public safety. However, there may also be concerns regarding the logistics and costs associated with implementing these electronic systems, particularly for smaller retailers.
A notable point of contention seems to be how the bill addresses instances where retrieving electronically readable information may not be feasible due to technological disruptions. While the bill provides protections for license holders in such cases, there are discussions around ensuring that the necessary infrastructure for this requirement is available, particularly in underserved areas. Additionally, some stakeholders might question the balance between technological advances in verification and the need for personal interaction and traditional verification methods.