3/16/04-A bill that would stiffen the state’s open-container law has died.
HB17, sponsored by Rep. Jane Warren, D-Laramie, sought to make it illegal to consume, transport or possess any alcoholic beverage in a vehicle on a public street or highway unless the beverage is unopened, in the trunk or in a not readily accessible outside compartment.
The bill didn’t apply to vehicles designed to carry more than 10 people, charted limousines or occupants in the living area of recreational vehicles.
Current law allows open containers in vehicles but forbids the driver from drinking from them.