Powdered alcohol ban passes Colorado House, moves to Senate

DENVER (AP) - Colorado House lawmakers approved a ban of powdered alcohol in the state before it hits stores.

The proposal would ban the product known as Palcohol until the state implements a regulatory system for it. The House approved the bill Monday on a 46-17 vote and referred the measure to the Senate.

Supporters of the bill are worried the product will make it easier to sneak alcohol into schools and public events.

Palcohol is awaiting federal approval to be sold, and the company that owns the product says it doesn’t expect it to be available until later this spring at the earliest. Product makers say the goal is convenience. They tout potential uses on flights, after long hikes and as an antiseptic in remote locations.

Five states have already banned Palcohol.

___

Online:

House Bill 1031: https://goo.gl/uE5n3P