House panel adopts substitute setting 21% ABV threshold, larger-container rule for alcohol bill

The House Regulatory Reform Committee on the call of the chair adopted substitute H‑1 to House Bill 5343 after testimony from industry representatives and a unanimous roll call.

Brett Visner of the Michigan Beer and Wine Wholesalers told the committee the substitute was negotiated with the Michigan Liquor Control Commission and “reflects an agreement” that accomplishes two primary objectives: set the ABV threshold at 21% and require containers larger than 200 milliliters. “It ensures that no products that are currently being sold by MLCC through the state spirit system are impacted by this legislation,” Visner said, while preserving room for “significant innovation” in the private three‑tier distribution system.

Rep. Wenzel asked whether the bill language would allow containers that can be readily resealed. Visner said the provision mirrors existing law for certain canned products and is designed to require a traditional, non‑resealable can: “You open it. That’s it.”

Rep. Hoadley moved to adopt the substitute; the clerk called the roll and reported 16 ayes, 0 nays, and the substitute was adopted. Representative Liberati then moved to report the bill, as substituted, to the Committee on Rules; that motion also passed on a recorded vote of 16 ayes, 0 nays.

The committee also noted a card of support filed by Lou Gretsch Gumbo of Great Lakes Wine and Spirits. No further action on the floor was recorded during the hearing; the committee forwarded the substituted bill to Rules for consideration.

The committee’s action follows industry negotiation and committee review. The next procedural step is consideration by the House Rules Committee and further House action if released from rules.