LIQUOR SALES AND GAS PUMPS

House Bill 5562

Sponsor:  Rep. Kevin Elsenheimer

Committee:  Regulatory Reform

Complete to 2-3-06

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 5562 AS INTRODUCED 1-19-06

The bill would amend the Liquor Control Code to revise population figures in a section that allows the holder of or applicant for a beer and wine takeout license (a specially designated merchant) to own and operate motor vehicle fuel pumps on or adjacent to the licensed premises.

Currently, the LCC cannot prohibit an SDM from owning or operating motor vehicle fuel pumps if the applicant or licensee is located in either (1) a city, incorporated village, or township with a population of 3,000 or less in a county with a population of 31,000 or more; or (2) a city, incorporated village, or township with a population of 3,500 or less in a county of under 31,000.  The licensee must maintain a minimum inventory of $10,000, excluding alcoholic liquor and motor vehicle fuel.

House Bill 5562 would increase the population figures from 3,000 to 3,500 in the larger counties and from 3,500 to 4,000 in the smaller counties.

The Liquor Control Code contains other provisions allowing fuel pumps on or adjacent to licensed premises.  One applies to specially designated distributors (SDD), which are businesses licensed to sell spirits, in addition to beer and wine, and  it contains similar requirements as for SDMs.  The other provision applies to very large shopping centers.  These other provisions are not being amended by the bill as introduced.

MCL 436.1541

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is a potential for a slight increase in liquor license fee revenue, but the additional number of retail store owners who will qualify is not determinable.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Chris Couch

                                                                                                  Fiscal Analyst:   Richard Child

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.