Legislature Passes Liquor Law Changes Affecting Breweries

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Liquor licensing would be streamlined and microbreweries could expand under legislation that has unanimously passed the Michigan Legislature.

The bipartisan amendments to the state's liquor laws overwhelming passed the state House and Senate on Wednesday and are expected to reach Gov. Rick Snyder's desk soon.

They would change the definition of a microbrewery, doubling production limits from 30,000 barrels to 60,000 barrels a year. The state would also create a $300 conditional license for use during applicants' liquor license review process.

Startup craft brewers would be allowed limited self-distribution under the legislation.

Brewers and liquor associations say the bills will help the industry's economic growth and job creation.

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