Suburb will allow underage people to serve alcohol at restaurants, bars

booze
Alcohol server Photo credit Getty Images

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — In an effort to help short-staffed bars and restaurants, Elk Grove Village officials are allowing 19- and 20-year-olds to serve alcohol.

The village board unanimously approved the measure earlier this week.

A new rule lowers the minimum age for employees to sell and serve — but not pour — liquor, as long as they complete a server training program.

Previously, Elk Grove required servers to be at least 21.

According to the village, the aftermath of COVID-19 and a lack of individuals seeking employment left many businesses struggling to hire servers. Officials hope the change will help business owners fill vacant positions.​

The new rule will take effect Sept. 1.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Getty Images