Michigan Moves Closer to Allowing Alcohol Sales at College Sporting Events
A bipartisan group of Michigan legislators has put together a bill that would let colleges and universities sell alcohol at on-campus sporting events. The bills are sponsored by Rep. Graham Filler, a Republican out of mid-Michigan; Rep. Joe Tate, a Democrat from Detroit and Wayne County; and Sen. Curtis Hertel, a Democrat out of Ingham County. Currently, there is a ban on selling alcohol at Michigan and Michigan State sporting events. Out of the 14 Big Ten schools, eight schools permit alcohol sales at football games.
“This is a fairness and freedom issue that will allow for a modern, more enjoyable college game-day experience – but it’s also a public health and safety issue,” Filler said in a statement.
Hertel added, “It’s simply a matter of fairness. Alcohol is served at MSU football games now, but only if you’re lucky enough to watch the game in a suite. Beer at the game should be allowed for more than just rich donors. Beyond that, there is overwhelming evidence that shows selling alcohol inside the stadium significantly reduces binge drinking on game days.”
“The data is clear that allowing alcoholic beverages in venues during sporting events lowers the probability of excessive alcohol consumption,” Tate added.
If passed, the Michigan Liquor Control Commission would give up to three tavern licenses or three Class-C liquor licenses for events.
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