Raising age limit to 21 to enter a bar, liquor store is being considered
by Michelle Krupa - Times-Picayune (excerpt)

In a move that could throw a wrench into the social lives of the region's 18-, 19- and 20-year olds -- and perhaps also cut down on crime -- City Councilwoman Jackie Clarkson has proposed a pair of local laws that would make it illegal for anyone younger than 21 to enter a bar or liquor store in New Orleans. As it stands, city law mirrors state statutes that allow people 18 and older to enter outlets "where alcoholic beverages are the principal commodity sold" and where "selling liquor is conducted as the principal business." Under one proposed ordinance, bars could have their licenses suspended or revoked and face fines if people younger than 21 are found "upon or around" their premises, though the proposal does not specify a distance. The other ordinance does not detail sanctions for liquor stores, saying only that "no person under the age of 21 years shall be invited or permitted on the premises."