Supporters of a bill that would eliminate late-night drink specials say the legislation would help curb excessive drinking.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Tony Grindberg, R-Fargo, would ban bars from offering discounts like two-for-ones after 11 p.m.
The first hearing on the bill is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Thursday in front of the Senate Political Subdivisions Committee.
Laura Oster-Aaland will testify in favor of the bill on behalf of the North Dakota Higher Education Consortium for Substance Abuse Prevention.
Research has shown that there's a link between the price of alcohol and excessive drinking, particularly with college students, Oster-Aaland said.
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Twenty-seven other states have similar laws that have drink discount restrictions.
"I think it is a step in the right direction in terms of reducing rapid and excessive consumption of alcohol, said Oster-Aaland, director of orientation and student success at North Dakota State University.
The North Dakota Hospitality Association opposes the bill and will testify against it, said Nicki Weissman, executive director and lobbyist.
"We prefer not to have state government involved in making those decisions," Weissman said.
Sen. Morrie Lanning, R-Moorhead, plans to introduce a similar bill in Minnesota.
Readers can reach Forum reporter
Amy Dalrymple at (701) 241-5590
