INDIANAPOLIS (WLFI) — From the pandemic to low lake levels, Madam Carroll owner Chris Peters said 2020 was a tough year.
"We lost, I'd say, 75 percent of our private charters, which is typically half our business," he explained.
However, legislation at the Indiana Statehouse could give his business the boost it needs to recover.
"We have to bring our customers new options, new options for revenue," Peters added.
Senate Bill 43 would allow the boat to operate with the same rules as a tavern.
Bill author Republican State Sen. Ron Alting said they would be allowed to sell carryout alcohol and have gaming, such as pull tabs.
"They're all paper games and only paper games and there's four they can play," Alting said.
Alting said the bill was created specifically for The Madam Carroll because it's the only vessel in Indiana allowed to sell alcohol year-round.
He said it would bring in much needed revenue.
"This is a big, big win for the Madam Carroll, and this should really, really give them a shot in the arm to let them compete," Alting added.
Peters said regardless if the legislation passes, The Madam Carroll will persevere.
"We're not going anywhere," Peters said. "We've fought through it and we're going to be here for a while."
The bill was also authored by local lawmaker Republican State Sen. Brian Buchanan.
It now goes to the House for a final reading. If passed, it will immediately be signed into law.
