KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – A bill that will allow alcohol sales at college stadiums in Michigan has moved forward in the state Senate. This as Western Michigan University plans to allow alcohol sales at it’s Waldo Stadium beginning this fall.
Supported by the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association at the Senate Regulatory Affairs Committee meeting on Tuesday, June 14, Senate Bill 247 is now on it’s way for consideration by the full Senate.
“At first glance, this bill looks like it would increase the amount of alcohol consumed in total, but research shows the exact opposite,” said MLBA Executive Director Scott Ellis. “People don’t feel obligated to drink excessively before the game begins because they know they will be able to purchase a beer during the event.”
The bill would also require all alcohol to be sold at fixed locations and that all servers would have to complete a training program approved by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission to help ensure safe service.
“Requiring servers to complete a server training program, like Techniques of Alcohol Management, prior to serving at events, will greatly reduce sales to minors and sales to intoxicated patrons,” said Ellis. “We want people to be safe and drink responsibly so they can visit local bars and restaurants for dinner and refreshments after the sporting events.”
Back in late April, WMU Board of Trustees approved a request from the school’s Athletic Director Dan Bartholomae to allow the sale of alcoholic beverages at games. Bartholomae added onto the request saying that it was a way to boost attendance and revenues, but that only beer, wine and seltzer would be sold.
State Senator Sean McCann of Kalamazoo has sponsored the measure that would allow universities to get a license to sell alcohol at their games for up to 100 days each year along with an additional five days for concerts or other events.
The bill will need to garner two-thirds support in the Senate and pass through the House before moving onto to the Governor’s desk for signature.
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