MI SB0501

Amends Michigan Liquor Control Code Section 533 to add distance restrictions for specially designated distributor licenses, prohibiting approval of new licenses or location transfers if an existing distributor is within 2,640 feet (measured along nearest traffic route).

Establishes exceptions to the 2,640-foot distance restriction, including when the existing distributor purchased less than $100,000 in spirits annually (adjusted annually for inflation), holds a hotel license, or when proposed locations are separated by a major 4-lane thoroughfare.

Allows specially designated merchant licenses to be issued at a rate of 1 per 1,000 population, with exemptions for applicants holding Class C, Class A/B hotel, club, tavern, or Class G licenses, and for establishments with at least 20,000 square feet and 20% food sales.

Waives merchant license quota requirements for gas stations applying within 60 days of January 4, 2017, and permits merchant licenses to be transferred within the same county.

Prohibits merchant licenses issued after January 4, 2017 under quota waivers from being transferred to other locations, and exempts gas stations from secondary location permit requirements.