Ohio lawmakers passed a bill this week that will allow designated districts to ignore open container laws, creating “outdoor refreshment areas.”
The bill allows cities with a population of at least 35,000 to add half-mile outdoor drinking districts – think Las Vegas and Bourbon Street.
The bill was passed in part because of the 2015 Major League Baseball All-Star Game being hosted in Cincinnati, but may also impact other conventions and events that are considering hosting in Ohio cities.
Columbus is eligible create up to three of these “outdoor refreshment areas” under the bill. Each area must contain at least four liquor permit holders. The Short North and Arena District seem likely contenders.
Governor Kasich still needs to sign the bill into law, but when he does it will take immediate effect and cities can begin implementing these areas – if they so choose.
