State Rep. Leon D. Young (D-Milwaukee) has proposed legislation that would create an exemption for Jazz in the Park in the law that prohibits patrons carrying in their own booze at venues that are licensed to sell liquor.
Current state law prohibits carrying in beverages because The East Town Association holds a license to sell fermented beverages in Cathedral Square Park during the event.
Despite the law, Jazz in the Park patrons have been allowed to carry in liquor since the inception of the festival in 1991. That's because it was only in January that the Milwaukee Police Department said it would begin to enforce the law this year.
"Jazz in the Park is a fantastic event that brings our community together," said Young in a statement. "It is unfortunate that concertgoers and well-intentioned citizens could be subject to fines and imprisonment because of a lack of communication and awareness regarding the law.
"As an attendee of the Jazz in the Park series myself, I wholeheartedly wish this concert series to continue without incident," states Rep. Young. "This exemption will allow Jazz in the Park to continue the customary practices that have made this event a beloved event in the community for years."
