Rules regarding alcohol consumption in nursing homes or assisted living facilities are decided on a state-by-state basis, and many facilities in the U.S. actively promote Happy Hours and other events to encourage socialization.

Residents of the nursing home where LeBrun lives have always been allowed to drink in their rooms and bring their own alcohol to community functions, said Sara Luehmann of Amira Choice.

He added that because older people are at higher risk of falls, alcohol consumption has been limited to two drinks at social events.

Speaking during the signing of the legislation, Governor Walz said that “getting older should not mean giving up the traditions and freedoms you have enjoyed your entire life.”

“This law reduces unnecessary bureaucracy so senior living communities can spend less time worrying about paperwork and more time creating opportunities for residents to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, Happy Hours and everyday moments together,” he said at Tuesday’s ceremony.

LeBrun’s quest for change began after the local government contacted Amira Choice saying it had broken rules by serving champagne at an event in April 2025 following renovations.

The center contacted LeadingAge Minnesota, a nonprofit that helps senior care providers, saying the cost of an alcohol license and the conditions that come with it were prohibitive.

But financial concerns weren’t the only motivating factor, said LeadingAge’s Erin Huppert.

“This is their home,” he said of Amira Choice residents. “They should be allowed to engage in legal alcohol consumption, just as they would if they lived in a single-family home in the community of their choice.”

Huppert said other providers are already planning to do the same.