State House approves self-serve alcohol machines

State Reps. Bob Godfrey, left, and David Arconti, celebrate their re-election at Democratic Headquarters on Main Street in Danbury, Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016. State Reps. Bob Godfrey, left, and David Arconti, celebrate their re-election at Democratic Headquarters on Main Street in Danbury, Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016. Photo: Carol Kaliff / Hearst Connecticut Media Buy photo Photo: Carol Kaliff / Hearst Connecticut Media Image 1 of / 95 Caption Close State House approves self-serve alcohol machines 1 / 95 Back to Gallery

HARTFORD — A bill approving self-serve alcohol machines at Connecticut bars and restaurants won a thumbs up from the House on Tuesday.

Championed by David Arconti, D-Danbury, the bill would allow people 21 and older to buy beer, wine and cider at the self-dispensing machines with a card obtained from the bartender. Consumers would be limited to 10 ounces of wine or 32 ounces of beer from the machine.

“Self-pouring technology helps support a booming industry of craft beer in our state,” Arconti said.

Some 110 representatives voted in favor of the measure with Arconti, while 34 opposed and six did not vote. Several lawmakers voting no said they thought the bill might result in job loss for bartenders. Others worried the machines would allow intoxicated people to purchase alcohol.

“We have a big enough problem of intoxicated drivers on the streets,” said Rep. Tom Delnicki, R-South Windsor.

“I don’t see this in any way contributing to more drinking than the current law,” said Rep. Bob Godfrey, D-Danbury.

He said bars and restaurants would employ trained staff to ID consumers and monitor the machines. They would be subject to the same penalties if they sell alcohol to underage people.

Last year, a similar bill for alcohol dispensing machines passed the House, but was not approved by the Senate, Arconti said. This year’s proposal passed the House with less debate, so Arconti said he is hopeful it may clear the other chamber.

The Danbury House delegation is interested in the issue because a self-serve bar that would use the machines is hoping to open in a downtown Danbury, Arconti said.

emunson@hearstmediact.com; Twitter: @emiliemunson