Rep. Saint Germain introduces H.B. 5122 to expand acceptable IDs for alcohol purchases

Representative Saint Germain presented House Bill 5122 as a ‘‘common sense’’ update to Michigan’s liquor laws to expand the types of acceptable photo identification for alcohol purchases while maintaining responsible safeguards.

"House Bill 5122 expands the types of acceptable photo ID that can be used to verify age for alcohol purchases," Saint Germain said, adding the change is intended to make the rules clearer and more workable for businesses. She noted the sponsor had been "communicating with Laura" to work through minor technical tweaks.

Saint Germain argued the change has business importance, saying restaurants rely on alcohol sales; during testimony she stated restaurants "generate roughly 70 to 80% profit margins as compared to food at only 10 to 15%." That figure was presented as the sponsor's characterization of business revenue dynamics and is attributed to her testimony in committee.

During questioning Representative Regas asked whether Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPLs) would be included; Saint Germain said CPLs are card-form IDs with a photo and security features and indicated they could be acceptable. Representative Nyer asked whether tribal IDs would be accepted; Saint Germain said "absolutely," though she acknowledged she had not seen every tribal ID format.

No committee vote on H.B. 5122 was recorded at this meeting.