Whitmer Signs Mixed Spirits Bill Into Law

On Monday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a package of four bills that will create significant changes to the state’s regulations surrounding the distribution and sale of canned “mixed spirit drinks.” The Michigan Craft Distillers Association (MCDA) sees the move as strongly beneficial to craft distillers throughout the state, with MCDA President Jon O’Connor touting the action as the “beginning of continued and expanded support for future efforts related to enhancing opportunities for Michigan Small Distillers.”

The bill package – Senate Bills 141 through 144 – creates several amendments to the Michigan Liquor Control Code that give distillers more leeway in how they manufacture, sell, and deliver canned cocktails.

Senate Bill 141, for instance, concerns direct-to-consumer delivery of mixed drink products. The Michigan Liquor Control Code typically bars retailers from delivering any alcoholic beverage directly to the business or home of a consumer, but does allow certain “qualified retailers” to deliver beer and wine. Under Senate Bill 141, qualified retailers – including “qualified small distillers” – will be allowed to deliver mixed spirit drinks as well.

Senate Bill 142, similarly, opens the door for distillers to deliver packaged mixed spirit drinks to retailers if certain conditions are met.

Senate Bill 144 amends the definition of “mixed spirit drink” in the Michigan Liquor Control Code, allowing for a higher alcohol by volume (13.5 percent) than was previously permitted (10 percent); and allowing mixed cocktails to be manufactured and sold in metal cans of up to 24 ounces. SB 144 also decreases the amount of tax on mixed spirits, from 48 cents per liter to 30 cents per liter, and expands the list of liquor licensees permitted to sell pre-packaged mixed spirit drinks.

Senate Bill 143, finally, concerns the sale and distribution of branded logo merchandise.

In a press release sent by the MCDA announcing the bill signing, Whitmer praised the legislation as a “bipartisan” effort that will “help our small businesses grow.”

“Distillers are a growing industry in Michigan, and these bills make it easier for distillers to distribute their products,” Whitmer said. “These bills will make canned mixed spirits more affordable and accessible, creating jobs and helping Michigan small businesses.”