Bill to expand Sunday liquor sales

RON FRENCH
The Detroit News

Lansing -- Liquor would be able to be sold as early as 7 a.m. Sundays, under a bill passed by the Senate and House on Wednesday.

Bars, restaurants, retail outlets and golf courses can sell beer, liquor and wine Sunday mornings for an annual fee of $160, under the bill. Establishments now pay $90 to sell liquor starting at noon Sundays.

"We've been working on this for years," said Lance Binoniemi, spokesman for the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association. "We're really encouraged that the Legislature came up with a reasonable fee."

Liz Boyd, communications director for Gov. Jennifer Granholm, said it isn't a sure thing the governor would sign the legislation. The governor "has some concerns about the bill," Boyd said. "We will have to review it. We have 14 days." Granholm had proposed Sunday morning liquor sales.

Binoniemi said he expects some businesses' sales to rise because of the extended hours. Some bars may decide to open earlier on Sundays, he said; restaurants may offer liquor at brunches. "There may be golf courses that want to sell a six-pack at the turn on Sunday mornings," Binoniemi said.

Liquor can also be sold after noon on Christmas Day; previously, sales weren't allowed anytime on the holiday.

Caterers will be allowed to provide beer, wine and liquor at catered events, rather than that service being provided separately.

via [Detroit News]