September 20, 2024

Heading to GenCon in Indianapolis? You might need to know these state laws

Indianapolis #Indianapolis

With Gen Con and other big conventions happening in Indianapolis, travelers are curious about how the laws differ from those in their home states. Indiana has unique laws involving marijuana, driving and weapons that might confuse visitors.

Here are six laws to take note of when traveling to or through Indiana.

Happening this week: Gen Con is back this week in Indianapolis. Here’s everything you need to know

No, weed is not legal in Indiana

Indiana is not one of the states that has jumped on the marijuana legalization bandwagon, so leave your hash at home. Neither medical nor recreational use is allowed.

A low-level possession charge is a class B misdemeanor possibly leading to 180 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Visitors may see dispensaries for what’s called “Delta 8,” which is from the cannabis plant but much lower in THC.

Cold beer only at the liquor store

Fun fact: Indiana regulates alcohol based on temperature and is one of the only states to do so. That means you’ll only find cold beer in liquor stores, not grocery stores or pharmacies. Room-temperature beer is up for grabs.

Indiana doesn’t allow alcohol sales before noon or after 8 p.m. on Sunday

If you need to stock up at the end of the weekend, you’re out of luck. Liquor can only be sold between noon and 8 p.m. on Sundays; until 2018, it used to be illegal to sell it any time on Sunday.

Sports betting is legal in Indiana

It is legal to use mobile sports betting apps and play fantasy leagues. Details and rules can be found on the Indiana Gaming Commission website.

Indiana doesn’t require handgun permits

People over 18 can carry a handgun without needing to obtain a permit or subsequent background check. People who were previously barred from having a firearm can be charged if they are caught with one.

GenCon policies don’t allow “live steel or weapons that can fire projectiles.” For costumes involving weapons, check the convention guidelines here.

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Indiana allows U-turns at stoplights

If you got yourself lost and need to turn around, drivers in Indiana can do a U-turn at a stop light if they are in the left turn lane and there is a median. Several intersections have been retrofitted to accommodate drivers doing so.

Check road signs before pulling the maneuver in case local authorities disallow at certain intersection.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Is weed legal in Indiana? State laws you need to know for your visit

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