Bloom Sluggett

On July 1, 2020, Governor Whitmer signed the following bills into law with immediate effect.

SB 0942 (PA 126 of 2020): Amends the Michigan Liquor Control Code, PA 58 of 1998 (MCL 436.1205 et seq.). Included in the amendments are the following:

• Sec. 205 – increases the amount of spirits a specially designated distributor can sell to an on-premise licensee from 9 liters/ month to 120 liters/ year and implements reporting requirements.
• Sec 536 – permits additional tasting room sales and activities for small distillers or distillers that hold a mixed spirit drink manufacturer license.
• Sec 1014 – implements sale and advertising restrictions for on-premise licensees.

HB 5781 (PA 124 of 2020): Amends the Michigan Liquor Control Code by adding a new section 551. The legislation authorizes local governments to designate social districts. Qualified licensees may serve alcohol on their own premises for consumption in the designated social district. Should the local government designate a social district, certain road closure, marking, management, and maintenance requirements must be followed. Additionally, once a designated social district is established, certain steps must be taken prior to revoking the designation. Section 551 only remains in effect until December 31, 2024.