Plan Would Change Rules About Dogs At Restaurants

LANSING (WWJ/AP) - A state law banning most animals from restaurants could change under legislation in the Michigan House.

The Detroit News reported Monday that under legislation proposed earlier this year municipalities would have the option to create an ordinance allowing dogs in outdoor seating areas. Currently, only service animals typically are allowed.

Republican state Rep. Margaret O'Brien of Portage is one of the sponsors and says the change is a way to buoy the economy. She says some other states allow people to take dogs on outdoor patios.

Lawmakers are working with the state Department of Agriculture & Rural Development on rules that restaurants would have to follow. Those rules could include signs to inform the public that dogs are allowed and also cleanliness standards to protect customers.

Would people want to dine with their favorite canine? Recent trends say yes.

Now in its fifth season, the Detroit-area bar series "Drinking With Dogs" has shown to be popular.  [More on this HERE].

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