Hoping to compete with Iowa and help young people find jobs, Moline has changed its liquor ordinance. Now "minors" who are 18, 19, and 20 can sell and serve alcohol in bars, restaurants, and grocery stores.
Until now the minimum age in the city was 21.
Mayor Stephanie Acri says she was first approached by a downtown business owner who wanted Moline to relax its rules.
"I do know we're in competition with the Iowa side that allows it. And so I think this will help, not only for the employment of our young people to stay on the Illinois side, but to help support the businesses on the Illinois side."
State law in Illinois already allows 18, 19, and 20 year olds to sell and serve liquor, but home rule cities like Moline are allowed to adopt stricter rules.