Two bills recently introduced to the state House of Representatives would ban the use of alcohol without liquid, commonly called AWOL, in Michigan.
AWOL is an inhalant that is a combination of alcohol mist and pure oxygen and can create a euphoric sensation. It has very few calories or carbohydrates, virtually no hangovers, and has an almost instantaneous effect, according to the AWOL USA Web site, www.awolusa.com.
Rep. Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge, who introduced the bill, said the instantaneous effect of AWOL is one of his main concerns.
Julie Durrett, a history junior, however, said she believed the quick onset of the euphoria might not be bad.
"I think it would wear off just as quickly," she said.
Jones, a former sheriff of Eaton County, said he has seen what alcohol can do to people.
"I believe a machine like this could lead to all sorts of abuse," he said, adding that the consumption of AWOL could also lead to more drunken driving.
Jones said he is worried bars offering AWOL would not be able to regulate its use as they can with liquid alcohol, and personal use of AWOL would be even more dangerous.
"It can only lead to binge drinking games," he said.
Jones said 1,400 students in the U.S. die in drinking-related incidents each year.
"This device will certainly add to that problem," he said.
The AWOL USA Web site said medical experts have described AWOL as being safe, and that it takes 20 minutes to inhale a vaporizer shot, which is about half the size of a liquid shot.
AWOL USA's spokesperson, Kevin Morse, could not be reached for comment.
The Michigan Licensed Beverage Association is also supporting the ban, Director of Government Affairs Lance Binoniemi said.
There is not a lot known about the overall effects of AWOL, but it is not a responsible way to consume alcohol, he said.
Binoniemi said he did not know of any AWOL in Michigan and the beverage association wants it banned before it can get popular.
"We're trying to take a proactive stance," he said.
Oxygen bars, where people inhale pure oxygen along with aromas, are still pretty rare in Michigan, Bronze Bay Tanning owner Sarah Munkacsy said.
Bronze Bay Tanning, at 109 E. Grand River Ave., is the only oxygen bar in East Lansing, she said. However, the machines there only produce pure oxygen and don't contain any alcohol.
Munkacsy said that she does not plan on installing AWOL, even if it stays legal, because she wants to promote natural highs.
"If the kids are going to drink, at least this will help them with the symptoms," she said about her oxygen bar.
Munkacsy said several students have commented to her about how well pure oxygen gets rid of hangovers.
It can also boost energy, increase alertness, clear the mind and relax the body, she said.
