HB 5485 Summary

• Amends section 537 of the Michigan Liquor Control Code to allow specially designated merchants to serve beer and wine for on-premises consumption in outdoor service areas under specified conditions.

• Requires commission approval and local government authorization, including a resolution from the local unit of government and documentation of police approval for the proposed outdoor service activity.

• Limits outdoor service areas to premises not exceeding 15,000 square feet located in downtown districts or principal shopping districts, with clearly marked and controlled serving areas.

• Requires servers to complete state-approved training, use disposable servingware (unless the merchant holds a local health department license), and maintain control of alcoholic beverages; prohibits outdoor service at locations where motor vehicle fuel is sold.

• Authorizes specially designated merchants to allow customers to remove partially consumed wine bottles from the premises if properly sealed, subject to Michigan vehicle code restrictions on open container possession.