KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Legislation sponsored by Senator Sean McCann of Kalamazoo that would allow alcohol sales on a continuing basis at university sporting events and concerts is awaiting Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s signature
The bill, which passed the Michigan House Tuesday and was previously approved by the Senate, allows the Michigan Liquor Control Commission to give the governing board of a public university up to five tavern licenses, five class C licenses, or a combination of five tavern or class C licenses.
Currently universities have had to apply for one-day special licenses to sell alcohol at sporting events. However, those licenses are capped at just 12 events per year.
In late April the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees approved a request from the school’s Athletic Director Dan Bartholomae to allow the sale of alcoholic beverages at games with those one day licenses. Bartholomae said it was a way to boost attendance and revenues, but that only beer, wine, and seltzer would be sold.
