Franz sponsors law to create conditional liquor license

LANSING — One of the last laws Gov. Rick Snyder signed in 2013 was state Rep. Ray Franz’ bill to create a conditional liquor license for business owners who are waiting for the state to finalize a permanent liquor license transfer.

Franz and supporters of the legislation gathered at the end of January to celebrate Public Act 236 of 2013 at a ceremonial presentation with the governor.

“This law will allow new owners to open their doors quicker and be able to pay their bills sooner while their permanent licenses are being processed,” said Franz, R-Onekama. “Michigan’s economic comeback relies on growing the business sector and adding jobs for people, so removing some of the government red tape that can slow that process is a priority.”

The new law creates a $300 temporary one-year permit the Michigan Liquor Control Commission has 20 days to review, compared to the six to eight months process for the full license.

Owners must submit a completed application including proof of insurance and property ownership to be eligible for the temporary permit while waiting for the MLCC’s determination on a full license.

Franz has firsthand experience with the system, having ownership of his grocery store business returned to him when the buyers could no longer complete the sales agreement. The store was unable to sell alcohol for several months while the liquor license paperwork was processed by the state for the transfer back.