With no discussion, the House State Affairs Committee has voted unanimously to introduce the second bill it’s considered this year, a proposal from the state Liquor Division to ban powdered alcohol. That move clears the way for a full hearing on the bill. Jeff Anderson, division director, told the lawmakers that 27 states already have prohibitions.

“Concerns over powdered alcohol include misuse by underaged persons, improper mixing with less than the prescribed amount of water,” he said.  Furthermore it has inherent concealability that will lead to illicit use in venues where alcohol is prohibited.” Anderson said the ban is supported “by law enforcement, the prevention community, the education community, and the beverage alcohol industry,” and the bill would have no fiscal impact.