AUGUSTA — The Democratic-controlled House has given initial approval to a bill to ban powdered alcohol.

The House voted 138-1 in support of Democratic Rep. Mick Devin’s bill Friday. It faces further votes in both chambers.

Powdered alcohol, or Palcohol, is expected to hit stores this summer. But lawmakers across the country have moved to ban the substance, which they say will make it easier for minors to abuse alcohol.

Palcohol creator Mark Phillips says lawmakers’ concerns are unfounded. He says powdered alcohol isn’t any more dangerous than liquid alcohol and that part of the opposition to the product is being driven by the liquor industry.

Phillips says his powdered alcohol will make it easier for active people to enjoy alcoholic beverages when they can’t carry heavy bottles, like when they’re hiking.


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