New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has signed into law legislation to strengthen and expand New York’s local craft brewery industry.
Key elements of the bill include tax exemptions and credits, exemption from paying the New York Liquor Authority fee and creation of a new Farm Brewery License.
The signing took place during a ceremony at the Matt Brewing Company in Utica
The legislation also created a new Farm Brewery License, which will replicate a similar provision for farm wineries. The legislation also provides a significant tax credit for New York state breweries that produce 60 million or fewer gallons of beer. The credit is 14 cents per gallon for the first 500,000 gallons of beer produced in the state, and 4.5 cents per gallon for the next 15 million gallons produced.
“This legislation will help ensure that the state’s thriving craft beer industry can continue to deliver jobs, revenue and pride for New York,” said New York State Brewers Association President David Katleski. “The new production tax credit and brand label fee registration relief will help lower the barrier to entry for small brewers hoping to open and expand in the state. And the farm brewer legislation will encourage new agritourism and the burgeoning hops and barley-growing industries. Governor Cuomo and state legislative leaders deserve a lot of credit for recognizing the contribution craft brewers make to the state’s economy and creating an environment for us to grow and flourish. Today, we toast their commitment.”