SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A law taking effect January 1 could help prevent young people from buying fruit-flavored malt drinks containing 4-6% alcohol.
The law requires retailers to separate soda and juice from liquor that looks like soda. It also prohibits retailers from displaying alcopop drinks next to soft drinks, bottled water or snacks catered to younger customers.
"If it's an area that is designated where individuals who are not 21 shouldn't be, then you don't have to worry about those items being co-branded or alcohol-infused products being adjacent to those others because it's an area that's supposed to be for 21 anyway," said Rep. Curtis Tarver (D-Chicago).
The Illinois Liquor Control Commission will also provide signs to stores stating these drinks are alcoholic beverages available to people 21 and older.
Rep. Curtis Tarver II said many minors are getting access to alcopop in grocery stores and gas stations across the state.
Senate Bill 2625 passed unanimously out of the House and Senate earlier this year.
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