Michigan’s zero-tolerance laws could soon get more intolerant because of legislation passed by the state House of Representatives last Wednesday.

The bill would force youths convicted of multiple underage alcohol violations to complete substance abuse programs or spend up to 90 days in jail or juvenile detention centers, in addition to existing fines and penalties.

“It’s not really harsher,” said state Rep. Mike Kowall, R-White Lake, who introduced the legislation. “It’s the same penalties you would get if you were 21. It reads almost the same as that statute.”

Michigan’s zero-tolerance law prohibits a person younger than 21 to purchase, consume or possess alcoholic beverages. Violators are subject to misdemeanors with fines up to $500 for third offenses and driver’s license suspensions for as long as one year, in addition to court orders to attend substance abuse counseling programs.

The bill must pass in the state Senate before being sent to the governor.

Engler creates new office to preserve Michigan

Gov. John Engler on Friday issued an executive order creating a state Department of History, Arts and Culture.

The order creates the new office by merging the responsibilities of several offices, including the Michigan Historical Commission. Engler said in a press release that the new department will encourage more preservation and promotion of Michigan history and culture, making the state a “more interesting and desirable place in which to live and travel.”