Michigan Wine Doggy-bag Bill Advances

A bill passed by the legislature allowing restaurant patrons to take home opened bottles of wine is awaiting the signature of Gov. Jennifer Granholm. The House passed the measure unanimously, with one abstention. Supporters of the bill, including the Michigan Restaurant Association, have said the measure would help the restaurant industry by encouraging diners to purchase more expensive wines. Backers also have said the bill could cut down on drunk driving because diners would not feel pressured to finish the entire bottle of wine in the restaurant. The proposal requires diners to order food along with the wine if they plan to take the opened bottle home. Restaurateurs would be required to recork the bottle so that the top of the cork is even with the lip of the bottle. http://www.nrn.com/story