Grandmother, 82, wins law change so she can enjoy Happy Hour at care home
An 82-year-old Minnesota woman successfully campaigned to change state law, allowing assisted living facilities to serve alcohol at special events without a license. The new legislation, nicknamed the 'Grandparents' Happy Hour' bill, was signed into law by Governor Tim Walz.
Why it matters
It highlights how individual advocacy can influence state-level policy and improve the quality of life and social autonomy for elderly residents in care facilities.
Image source, Le Brun Family Image caption, Anita Le Brun (centre) says she is very proud of the role she has played in getting the state law changed
Grandmother-of-five Anita Le Brun has always loved a good glass of pinot grigio and her family's tradition of kicking off 5pm Happy Hours at their lakehouse.
The 82-year-old couldn't believe it, then, when she found out last year that her Minnesota assisted living facility was prohibited from serving drinks to residents because it didn't have a licence.
Already something of a social butterfly at Amira Choice Champlin, Le Brun agreed to become the face and voice of a mission to change the law.
After testifying twice before the state legislature, she shared a toast with Governor Tim Walz this week for a ceremonial signing of what's been nicknamed the "Grandparents' Happy Hour" bill at the very facility she calls home.
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