Wisconsin legislators in the Assembly passed a sweeping bill that will overhaul the three-tier system in the state and give craft brewers additional privileges. The bipartisan bill passed the Assembly 90-4 and heads to the Senate where it is expected to pass.
AB 304 has broad support including the Wisconsin Grocers Association and the Tavern League of Wisconsin as well as the Wisconsin Brewers Guild.
The bill would allow breweries who make more than 250 barrels of beer a year to pour wine and liquor in their taprooms, under their existing permits. AB 304 would also codify (but not change) which of the partners is responsible for the tax and where the production is counted. Another new benefit for craft brewers is that breweries could pour free samples, up to two 3-ounce samples per day, per person. The bill would also define and more clearly allow beer donation to non-profit organizations.
The bill would create the Division on Alcohol Beverages in the Department of Revenue which would oversee and regulate alcohol manufacturers.