The Brewers Association has stepped up the legislative advocacy game by hiring a full-time, DC-based governmental affairs staff member.
The BA press release in full;
Katherine “Katie” Marisic has been named Federal Affairs Manager at the Brewers Association, the not-for-profit trade association dedicated to small and independent American craft brewers. Based in Washington, D.C. Marisic will plan and execute legislative, regulatory and political strategies to drive the Brewers Association’s federal affairs presence on Capitol Hill. She will report to Brewers Association CEO Bob Pease who currently leads government affairs-related matters.
“As the craft brewing industry continues to grow, our members need a champion on the Hill who understands not only the intricacies of politics but of the entire brewing landscape,” said Pease. “Katie is not only well-versed in politics and policy, she is also a longtime craft brewing supporter. Her experience will translate seamlessly to advocate for small and independent brewers in our nation’s capital.”
For the last five years, Marisic has worked in D.C. for the National Association of Federal Credit Unions (NAFCU), most recently in the capacity of vice president of political affairs, supervising political advocacy efforts, planning and executing legislative strategy, actively lobbying members of Congress, and coordinating grassroots outreach efforts. Prior to her time at NAFCU, she worked for two different Congressional representatives. Beyond her political background, Marisic helped start Atlas Brew Works in Washington D.C, gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of running a craft brewery.
A native of Pennsylvania, where her family frequented Tröegs Brewing Company, Marisic is a graduate of Duquesne University in Pittsburgh and holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and psychology. She will start with the Brewers Association on February 16.
“I’m thrilled to join the Brewers Association in a role that combines my personal and professional passions,” added Marisic. “This is an exciting time full of opportunity for American craft brewers and I look forward to being a voice for them in the halls of government.”
The Brewers Association has taken positions on, and is actively engaged in, several regulatory and legislative initiatives, including excise tax and distribution. Currently, the Brewers Association is working on passing the Small BREW Act, legislation that would recalibrate the federal excise tax for American small brewers.