If you had to choose the dumbest aspect of Utah's liquor laws (I know, so many options), the idea of putting up a barrier to block restaurant patrons' view of the bar is a strong contender.

So what does Senate President Michael Waddoups (R-14th Century) want to do? He wants to make the barrier, the so-called "Zion Curtain," more impermeable.

According to this Deseret News account, the Utah Senate's Administrative Rules Committee will consider the possibility of adding rules to prevent minors in restaurants from seeing alcoholic beverages prepared.

Said Waddoups:

"Restaurants are turning into bars. It's making it look attractive. Kids see it and wonder what they're missing. I think we need to be a little more strict."

Yeah, because nothing stops childhood curiosity like hiding something from the little buggers. You start mixing drinks in the back room, and kids will think there's a mini-Hogwarts back there. Then they'll really wonder what they're missing, Senator.

Labels: alcohol, alcohol laws