Bill Would Require That Pint Of Beer Contain 16 Ounces

LANSING (WWJ) - A proposed state law would ensure that Michiganders get enough brew for their buck.

A bill introduced in the state legislature would make it illegal for bar and restaurant proprietors to advertise or sell a pint of beer that contains less than a pink — which, in the U.S., is typically 16 ounces.

The bill's co-sponsor, State Representative Brandon Dillon, D-Grand Rapids, says folks should get what they pay for.

"If you're going to offer something that is an actually recognized unit of measurement, you should have to actually sell what you say you're advertising," Dillon said.

Some pint-style beer glasses with thicker bottoms hold as little as 12 ounces.  British pints check in at 20 ounces.

Some bar owners aren't happy with the prospect of having to buy all new glassware, while supporters of the legislation say they could just call the pints something else.

"It's not a huge issue," Dillon admitted. "You know, the word's not going to fall apart if we don't get this legislation passed.

"But I do think it's a consumer protection issue; it's a truth in advertising issue," he said.

The bill, sponsored also by Rep. David Knezek, D-Dearborn Heights, would amend Michigan's Liquor Control Act. It's been sent to the House Committee on Regulatory Reform for consideration.