State liquor licenses OK'd for UM's Crisler, Yost; here is when alcohol sales will begin

Michigan’s athletic department has been approved for state liquor licenses and alcohol sales will begin Friday at Crisler Center and Yost Arena, the school announced Thursday.

Last October, the UM Board of Regents approved applying for a state liquor license for Yost Arena, Crisler Center and Michigan Stadium. At that meeting last fall, it was determined no alcohol will be served at football games at Michigan Stadium until there is data from the Yost and Crisler and more discussion.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer last July signed legislation that allows for the sale of alcohol in college stadiums and arenas. At the time, Whitmer described the law as a way to "curb binge drinking at college sporting events" by cutting down on excessive alcohol consumption during tailgating before games.

Alcohol will be sold at Crisler Center for the first time on Friday when Michigan wrestling faces Iowa (8:30 p.m.), and for the first time at Yost on Feb. 9 when Michigan hockey faces Michigan State at 7 p.m. Those purchasing alcohol must show ID and there will be a limit of two beverages each transaction.

The Board of Regents voted Oct. 19 to authorize asking the Michigan Liquor Control Commission to issue liquor licenses at several athletic venues. The license allowed for alcohol sales at the venues for Michigan events and during a small number of non-athletic events each year.

achengelis@detroitnews.com

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