The bill amends the Michigan Liquor Control Code of 1998 by introducing new definitions and provisions aimed at modernizing the regulation of alcoholic beverages. Key updates include clarifying terms such as "alcohol," "alcohol vapor device," and "approved tasting room," while also defining "nonalcoholic beer" and "micro brewer." A significant addition is the establishment of the Michigan Craft Beverage Council, which will oversee the grape and wine industry, promote Michigan's agricultural products, and award grants for research and projects that support the beverage industry. The bill also allows wholesalers to sell nonalcoholic beer to brewers for consumption at their approved tasting rooms, ensuring compliance with the three-tier distribution system.

Further changes focus on licensing regulations for beer festivals and the sale of alcoholic beverages. The bill allows organizations with special licenses to conduct beer festivals, where beer can be served as samples without charge. It also permits members of these organizations, aged 18 and older, to serve beer at events. Additionally, the definition of a "beer festival" is updated to include events where the public can purchase and sample beers. The bill outlines that certain entities must not be licensed as specially designated merchants or distributors and specifies conditions under which wholesalers can sell or deliver alcoholic beverages to institutions like hospitals and churches. It also includes provisions for sampling alcoholic beverages under regulated conditions, ensuring that employees involved are of legal drinking age.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 436.1105