Good morning all,
On Friday morning many of you called in to participate in the public comments portion of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) call. Our collective goal was to express concern over current circumstances regarding restrictions which limit revenue in the hospitality sector and to offer options and solutions we feel are fair and safe for businesses, their employees, and the public.
Unfortunately the MLCC does NOT support the idea of safely packaged cocktails or any other forms of alcohol other than beer and wine to be sold for take-out or delivery at this time. It goes without saying that we are frustrated and confused by their stance. Numerous states have demonstrated their support of small businesses by temporality easing restrictions on licensed establishments to responsibly sell pre-batched and sealed cocktails and other packaged spirits.
We knew all along that the MLCC does not have the authority to change the law, but had hoped for their support. The only way we will see action on this issue in time to help is through an EXECUTIVE ORDER from Governor Whitmer. So please, CALL AND WRITE the Governor’s Office NOW!
NEXT STEPS:
Shortly before Friday’s MLCC call I was made aware of a workgroup scheduled for Monday 4/27 to discuss reopening plans for bars and restaurants. It has since been announced that this call will be PUBLIC. This is important news! The MLCC clearly sees that owners and operators deserve a seat at the table and our voices will continue to be heard. The outcomes of Monday’s meeting will likely directly impact public policy immediately as recommendations are expected to be sent to the Governor’s office.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE:
1. JOIN THE CALL. Prepare a short statement in support of SAFE options to generate revenue.
2. INVITE THE MEDIA to attend to call. We need more coverage!
3. GATHER SUPPORT. Share this petition and tell your story.
4. CALL YOUR REPRESENTATIVES. legislative support is key in getting the Governor’s attention.
Social Distancing will continue indefinitely and we expect the hospitality industry to see limited capacity restrictions well into the future.
Businesses will fail without immediate support. Full stop. The responsible sale of packaged spirits and safely prepared and sealed ready-to-drink cocktails can help generate much needed revenue and will protect employees and patrons by reducing contact.
PLEASE JOIN IN SUPPORT by participating on Monday, April 27th at 2:30pm.
Toll-free teleconference phone number: 888-204-5984
When prompted, enter the following passcode: 3198088
PLEASE KEEP YOUR STATEMENTS BRIEF AND RESPECTFUL.
*If a meeting is cancelled because the Commission does not have any business to conduct, an email notification will be sent to the meeting notification email list. You may sign up for meeting notifications by emailing fawcetta@michigan.gov to be added to the notification list.”
LAST BUT NOT LEAST:
A longstanding advocate for On-premise licensees, The Michigan Licensed Beverage Association has prepared a SHORT SURVEY to help determine which ideas can best help struggling businesses. Please fill out and submit ASAP and consider joining.
Take good care,
ROBYN CLEVELAND CO-OWNER | DISTILLER
NORDEN SPIRITS, LLC