A rule banning Michigan bar and restaurants from displaying campaign signs faces a legal challenge from the American Civil Liberties Union.
The ACLU has filed a lawsuit against the state Liquor Control Commission, saying the rule violates free speech rights.
The policy says any business with a liquor license can have signs dealing with ballot initiatives. But owners are banned from having any signs that endorse a political party or candidate on the premises.
The ACLU’s Michael Steinberg says the policy is archaic.
“The rule is a blatant violation of the free speech rights of bar owners," he says. "And it’s our hope that the rule will be suspended.”
Steinberg says he hopes that will happen before the November 6 election.
The Michigan Liquor Control Commission won’t comment on the lawsuit.