Illinois on Wednesday took a step toward allowing commuters and other train passengers to enjoy a drink without breaking the law.
The state House voted to repeal the widely ignored Railroad Intoxicating Liquor Act of 1911, which prohibits the consumption of alcohol on trains or around train stations. According to the century-old legislation, train conductors may arrest riders for drinking alcohol and charge them with a misdemeanor.
Rep. Terra Costa Howard, a Glen Ellyn Democrat who is sponsoring the House bill, called the alcohol ban an “archaic law” that has not been enforced for many years. When it has been enforced, she said, police officers have used it as justification to penalize homeless individuals sleeping in train stations.
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The bill passed with overwhelming support, with only three representatives voting “No” and two voting “Present.” Howard said the repeal’s widespread support made sense, as it would help state law catch up to contemporary norms and behavior in Illinois.
“People don’t even realize that it’s against the law, because if you ride the train any day at 4:40 and after, people are having maybe a drink or two,” Howard said.
Amtrak and Metra currently permit riders to drink alcohol, although Metra prohibits alcohol consumption and glass bottles on trains during some busy times, such as the day of the St. Patrick’s Day parade and during the Lollapalooza music festival. All food and beverage consumption is prohibited on CTA trains and buses, but the rule is loosely enforced.
Sen. Laura Ellman, a Democrat from Naperville, is sponsoring the bill in the Senate. If the Senate approves the repeal, it will be sent to the governor’s desk.
aayres-brown@chicagotribune.com
