Michigan Votes Forum

 That would be nice.  Unfortunately, there is no tax system in place to handle this so it's not likely to pass. 

 As the owner of a small restaurant, this would be fabulous!  Lack of tax on it holding you back?  Why not charge a small yearly fee?  Most small restauranteurs I know would be more than willing to do so.  Additional liquor licenses are not available in our county.  Only those currently held in escrow,  with hefty fees, escrow charges, etc. The only one we found available (locked in escrow) was $50K+!  No way we can afford that.  Its a shame with the economy floundering so badly in Michigan more is not being done to support the small businesses that are doing what the state as a whole seems to find so difficult - EMPLOYING PEOPLE!  Many people shy from indulging in a nice dinner out at a non-licensed restaurant - who wants pasta without wine?  Yet to add the cost of a bottle in a licensed facility will add another $20+ to a tab.  In this economy???   This bill would make an evening out not only more enjoyable, but more affordable. 

This is a great idea for small businesses. I think the lack of a tax system comment was facetious.

 Probably correct in that it was a facetious comment - but unfortunately the knee-jerk reaction that I have already seen the "licensed" operations start screaming about here.  I actually broke it down to explain that the tax is already PAID to the state when a retail purchase is made.  And if a corking fee is charged, the revenue goes into taxable income and the state wins again.  What I got in return was a blank look and the comment "But...thats not the point!".  This will be a tough one to get any movement on but I have sent the post and the bill to various small business organizations around the state as well as my local commission.  We can only hope!!

I wish you luck, and will contact my senator to urge him to support senate bill 943.