LANSING, Mich. (AP) - State regulators have dropped a 1979 rule that generally required a half-mile distance between liquor retailers.
The Detroit News (https://detne.ws/2nRjMlj ) says the change by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission occurred Thursday. A trade association that represents stores has filed a lawsuit, saying the commission was required to hold a public hearing.
Auday Arabo, president of the Associated Food and Petroleum Dealers, compared the commission’s actions to that of a dictator.
Supporters of the half-mile restriction say it protects communities and gives retailers some room against potential competitors.
But the commission says the half-mile rule discriminates against qualified applicants. The commission must respond to the lawsuit within seven days.
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Information from: The Detroit News, https://detnews.com/
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