A bill in the state Senate would allow art studios to serve wine and beer during painting classes. The bill would also let underage children paint alongside their parents.
State Sen. Sheila Harsdorf, R-River Falls, said there’s a new business model springing up in the Midwest known as paint and sip studios. Patrons paint with an art instructor while enjoying wine and beer. Harsdorf said her bill would clear up language on liquor licensing to treat the studios the same as bowling alleys. She also said she sees no reason children shouldn’t be allowed to join their parents.
“Because the primary focus of this business is not the same as drinking,” said Harsdorf. “The primary focus of the business is the art, the aspects of painting, the arts. So, this is an opportunity where parents can bring their children and enjoy a night of painting.”
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The “paint and sip” bill is circulating for co-sponsors. An Assembly version of the bill is being authored by Republican Dean Knudson.
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