Minnesota Grandma Changes Law to Restore Happy Hour

Eighty-two-year-old Anita LeBrun of Minnesota successfully advocated for a law change allowing assisted living facilities to serve alcohol at events without a license. LeBrun discovered her care home, Amira Choice Champlin, was prohibited from serving drinks due to licensing issues, disrupting a cherished tradition. She then became the public face of a campaign to amend the state’s regulations, testifying before the Minnesota legislature.

The new law, nicknamed the “Grandparents’ Happy Hour” bill, took effect this month and permits facilities to serve alcohol with prior notification to the state. Advocates like Erin Huppert of LeadingAge Minnesota argued residents should have the same freedoms as those living independently. The change follows similar pushback in other states, including a recent case in Connecticut involving TikTok star Lillian Droniak.

Amira Choice is now planning a celebratory event, with LeBrun hailed as a “resident superstar” for her efforts. The facility hopes the new law will encourage socialisation and improve quality of life for its residents.