We All Lose When Kids Buy Booze

LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA) and Michigan Department of Consumer and Industry Services (CIS) kicked off "We All Lose When Kids Buy Booze," a campaign to reduce underage drinking.

"We represent nearly 4,000 foodservice establishments in the state - all of which are absolutely committed to eliminating underage drinking," said Rob Gifford, Executive Director of the MRA. "We are supporting legislation that, when enacted, would make it very difficult for those under 21 to be served alcohol in any establishment."

Michigan restaurants are at the forefront of the issue, constantly on alert for underage drinkers, said Gifford. Altered driver licenses are the bane of the restaurant industry, as underage drinkers have become increasingly sophisticated in their efforts to get into bars.

New legislation sponsored by Sen. Loren Bennett (R-Canton Twp.) would dramatically change the current license format, making forgeries nearly impossible, said Gifford. Senate Bill No. 925 would require the Secretary of State to begin issuing driver licenses in a vertical format (the current format for all license is horizontal) to all persons under the age of 21. The bill further requires that licenses for those under the age of 18 include the date at which the licensee will become 18 years of age and 21 years of age. For persons at least 18 but under the age of 21, the date on which the licensee turns 21 years of age is required. If enacted, Senate Bill 925 will be a valuable resource for business owners and operators in combating the underage purchase of tobacco products and alcoholic beverages.

The Michigan Restaurant Association and is members already actively participate in The Bar Code Responsible Beverage Alcohol Service Program. The training program teaches how to establish serving policies that comply with the state liquor code. It gives restaurant and foodservice managers and employees the knowledge, confidence and tools to think and react successfully and responsibly when serving alcoholic beverages.

Founded in 1921, the Michigan Restaurant Association represents nearly 4,000 Michigan foodservice establishments. The foodservice industry plays an integral role in Michigan's economy, employing more than 300,000 people and creating $10.6 billion in annual sales.