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| For Immediate Release |
Contact: Andy Deloney |
June 18, 2009
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517/377-3931 |
The Hits Keep Coming: Higher Liquor License Fees & Taxes Proposed
More threats to the food and beverage service industry presented themselves this week in the state House of Representatives.
First, state Rep. Marie Donigan (D-Royal Oak) introduced House Bill 5059, which would allow cities, townships and counties to establish taxes on alcoholic drinks sold in bars and restaurants.
Second, state Rep. Rick Hammel (D-Flushing) introduced House Bill 5056, which would double all liquor license fees. The bill also allows, by permit, Sunday morning as well as post-2am sales, but each of these permits comes with a hefty $1500 price tag and arbitrary local sign-off requirements.
MRA strongly opposes both bills.
While the bills are bad enough on their own, what makes House Bill 5056 worse is that the bill setting out the appropriations for fiscal year 2010 for the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth assumes that the increased revenues from these increased fees will be passed. This means there will be great pressure, particularly in the House, to pass this bill.
Your help is needed!
Contact your state representative today and urge them to oppose House Bills 5056 and 5059! If you need help contacting your state representative, Andy in the MRA Public Affairs Department.
The Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA) is the recognized leader of Michigan's hospitality industry, providing essential services to the foodservice community. Founded in 1921, the MRA represents more than 4,500 Michigan foodservice establishments. The industry plays an integral role in Michigan's economy, employing more than 423,600 people and creating more than $13.1 billion in annual sales. For more information please call 800-968-9668.
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