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Local Option Elections – In General
Local option elections allow registered
voters to vote on the question of whether alcohol sales and
consumption shall be allowed within a precinct. Local option
elections can specify certain types of alcohol that may be made
available within that precinct and whether the alcohol may be
consumed off-premises only or both on- and off-premises. [R.C.
4301.32]
Definitions of Types of Alcohol
Ohio liquor control law divides alcoholic
beverages into various classes according to their alcohol
content. A local option election will affect only the sale of
those classes of beverages that are specifically designated on
the petition and in the ballot language. The Ohio Revised Code [R.C.
4301.01] define these classes of alcoholic beverages as:
"Beer"
Refers to all brewed or fermented malt
products containing at least ˝ of 1 percent of alcohol by
volume, but not more than 6 percent of alcohol by weight.
"Intoxicating Liquor"
Refers to a broad classification
including all liquids and compounds, other than beer,
containing at least ˝ of 1 percent of alcohol by volume.
"Mixed Beverages"
Refers to premixed, bottled products
obtained by combining whiskey, neutral spirits, brandy, gin,
or other distilled spirits with water, plant juices or other
flavorings. The completed product must contain not less than
˝ of 1 percent and not more than 21 percent of alcohol by
volume.
"Spirituous Liquors"
Refers to all intoxicating liquors
containing more than 21 percent of alcohol by volume.
"Wine"
Refers to all liquids made from the
fermented juices of grapes, fruits or other agricultural
products and containing not less than ˝ of 1 percent and not
more than 21 percent of alcohol by volume.
The Petition Process
The requirements to circulate a local option
petition vary depending upon the type of alcohol sale and
consumption the petitioner wishes to place on the ballot. The
PETITIONER must decide on the type(s) of alcohol sale(s) he or
she wishes to place on the ballot and the area that will be affected
by the election. The petitioner must then follow the process
required for the particular petition.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
You may find more information on local
options on-line by visiting the Ohio Department of Commerce’s
Division of Liquor Control website.
If you have any questions
regarding any of the information contained on this page
E-MAIL
or call (419) 739-6720
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