REQUIRE WARNINGS FOR PREGNANT WOMEN

AT RETAIL LIQUOR ESTABLISHMENTS

House Bill 4112 as introduced

Sponsor:  Rep. Hank Vaupel

Committee:  Regulatory Reform

Complete to 2-18-19

SUMMARY:

House Bill 4112 would amend the Liquor Control Code to require all establishments where liquor is sold to have a sign warning of the dangers of drinking while pregnant.

The bill would require all persons licensed under the act to sell alcohol at retail to post in a conspicuous location a sign informing the public of the effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. The sign would have to contain the message: “Pregnancy and alcohol do not mix. Drinking alcoholic beverages during pregnancy can cause birth defects.” The Liquor Control Commission (LCC) would be charged with developing and furnishing the sign. If the liquor license was for selling alcohol for consumption on the licensed premises (such as at restaurants), then the license holder could choose to place the message on a menu instead of posting a sign.

The bill would take effect 180 days after enactment.

Proposed MCL 436.1905a

FISCAL IMPACT:

House Bill 4112 would not have a significant fiscal impact on the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs or any other unit of state or local government. Liquor licensees obtain other required postings from the LCC’s website, so administrative costs for the LCC under this bill would likely be nominal and supported by existing departmental appropriations. Approximately 19,300 establishments would be required to display the signage detailed in the bill.

                                                                                        Legislative Analyst:   Nick Kelly

                                                                                                Fiscal Analyst:   Marcus Coffin

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