2021 Senate Bill 656 / 2022 Public Act 136

Authorize “robo-bartenders”

Introduced in the Senate

Sept. 28, 2021

Introduced by Sen. Jim Runestad (R-15)

To authorize the use of “robo-bartender” alcoholic dispensing machines located at a customer's table or booth in restaurants and bars, and in certain other locations in an establishment with a liquor license, if the machine does not dispense more than 96 ounces of beer, wine, or mixed spirit drink in a single order, and does not dispense spirituous liquor “straight." A customer still be required to order the beer, wine, or mixed drinks from a human staff member, with staff members required to monitor the service. Rules adopted under an existing law permit a much more limited version of this, which the industry has sought to expand.

Referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform

Nov. 3, 2021

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (S-1) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

Nov. 30, 2021

Amendment offered

To clarify a reference in the bill.

The amendment passed by voice vote

Dec. 1, 2021

Passed in the Senate 35 to 1 (details)

Received in the House

Dec. 1, 2021

Referred to the Committee on Regulatory Reform

May 24, 2022

Reported without amendment

With the recommendation that the substitute (H-2) be adopted and that the bill then pass.

June 8, 2022

Passed in the House 78 to 28 (details)

To place in statute authorization for the use of “robo-bartender” alcoholic dispensing machines that are located at a customer's table or booth in restaurants, and smaller amounts in certain other locations in an establishment with a liquor license. The machines could dispense up to 96 ounces of beer, wine, or mixed spirit drink in a single order, but could not dispense spirituous liquor “straight," and staff would be required to monitored their use. Rules adopted under an existing law permit a much more limited version of this industry.

Received in the Senate

June 9, 2022

June 23, 2022

Passed in the Senate 37 to 1 (details)

Signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

July 11, 2022