Liquor: other; Identification allowed to verify age to purchase alcohol; expand. Amends 1998 PA 58 (MCL 436.1101 - 436.2303) by adding sec. 202.

Michigan House Bill 5122, introduced in October 2025, proposes expanding the types of photo identification that can be used to verify a consumer's age when purchasing or consuming alcoholic beverages. The bill defines 'qualified photo identification' to include various forms of government-issued IDs, such as driver's licenses, state personal identification cards, passports, military IDs, tribal IDs, and student IDs issued by educational institutions.

Supporters of HB 5122 argue that the bill modernizes and simplifies the process of age verification for alcohol purchases by recognizing a broader range of valid identification forms. This expansion is seen as a step toward inclusivity, accommodating individuals who may not possess traditional forms of ID but have other government-issued or institutional identification. Proponents believe this change will streamline transactions and reduce barriers for consumers.

Critics of the bill express concerns that expanding the list of acceptable IDs could increase the risk of underage individuals obtaining alcohol. They argue that some forms of identification, such as student IDs or local government-issued IDs, may lack standardized security features, making them more susceptible to forgery. Opponents worry that this could undermine efforts to prevent underage drinking and complicate enforcement for retailers.