This bill amends the Michigan Liquor Control Code of 1998 by updating definitions and adding new provisions related to the regulation of alcoholic beverages. Key definitions are clarified, including "alcohol," "alcohol vapor device," "alcoholic liquor," and "approved tasting room." Notably, the term "brand" is redefined to include a broader range of identifiers used by suppliers, and the concept of "brand extension" is introduced to encompass products marketed under names or trademarks that are similar to existing brands. Additionally, the bill specifies that a supplier must register a multibranded product with the commission and appoint the wholesaler or wholesalers that have rights to the supplier's underlying brand.

The bill also includes several insertions and deletions to refine the language and ensure clarity in the definitions and regulations. For instance, the term "name" is replaced with "group of words, letter, group of letters, symbol, or group of symbols" in the definition of "brand," and the definition of "supplier" is expanded to include various types of manufacturers and sellers of alcoholic beverages. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that distribution rights in effect as of the effective date of the amendatory act are preserved, ensuring that existing agreements are not adversely affected by the new regulations. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of House Bill No. 4823.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-3): 436.1105
House Introduced Bill: 436.1105
As Passed by the House: 436.1105