LANSING — A new law, co-sponsored by Sen. John Proos, to make powdered alcohol illegal in Michigan will go into effect in January.

“Every year, many young people tragically die due to alcohol poisoning. As a father, I believe we should do all we can to discourage and prevent underage drinking,” said Proos, R-St. Joseph. “Powdered alcohol — with flavors like ‘lemon drop’ that appeal to kids and its ability to be easily transported and used discreetly — raises the potential for underage use and the risk of further tragic losses of life.

“Prohibiting this potentially dangerous product is the best way to protect our children, and I am proud we’ve taken a stand against it so that it never wreaks havoc on our families.”

Public Act 165 of 2015 bans the sale, distribution and possession of powdered alcohol. The new law goes into effect on Jan. 26, 2016.

“When used properly, powdered alcohol affects the consumer just like liquid alcohol. However, powdered alcohol poses unique risks, such as being snorted to get intoxicated at a faster rate,” Proos said. “The product can also create dangerous combinations if mixed with substances other than water, such a Coke or liquor. One concern often raised is that someone could use this to spike another person’s drink — increasing its alcohol content without the person’s knowledge.”