EARLY SUNDAY LIQUOR SALES & CONSUMPTION

DURING LICENSED MOTORSPORTS EVENTS

House Bill 4055

Sponsor:  Rep. Mike Simpson

Committee:  Regulatory Reform

Complete to 2-17-09

A SUMMARY OF HOUSE BILL 4055 AS INTRODUCED 1-22-09

The bill would amend the Michigan Liquor Control Code to allow a motorsports liquor licensee to serve or allow the consumption of alcoholic liquor on its licensed premises on any Sunday during which a motorsports event is scheduled and takes place "notwithstanding Section 1114 [of the code] and R 436.1403 of the Michigan Administrative Code.". 

Section 1114 of the Liquor Code and the associated administrative rules prohibit the sale of alcoholic liquor between the hours of 2 a.m. and 12 noon E.S.T. on Sundays.  Beer and wine may be sold after noon on Sundays without a Sunday sales permit unless prohibited by the local government.  The Sunday sale of spirits requires a Sunday sales permit from the Liquor Control Commission (LCC).

The bill would amend Section 518 of the Michigan Liquor Control Code (MCL 436.1518), which applies specifically to certain motorsports entertainment complexes.  That section allows for such complexes to obtain liquor licenses that permit the sale of beer and wine (only) for consumption on the premises, and also allows spectators over 21 years of age to bring in beer and wine purchased elsewhere for consumption in portions of the complex that are part of the licensed premises.  The licenses are good during sanctioned motorsports events only.

A "motorsports entertainment complex" must have at least 1,500 fixed seats for race patrons; have at least seven scheduled days of motorsports events each calendar year; serve food and beverages through concession outlets; and engage in tourism promotion.  The complex must obtain a motorsports event license from the LCC.  The motorsports event annual license fee is $250.

FISCAL IMPACT:

The bill would have no apparent fiscal impact.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Chris Couch

                                                                                                  Fiscal Analyst:   Mark Wolf

■ 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.