SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1290

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Title: An act relating to increasing the number of tasting rooms allowed under a domestic winery license.

Brief Description: Increasing the number of tasting rooms allowed under a domestic winery license.

Sponsors: House Committee on General Government & Information Technology (originally sponsored by Representatives Condotta, Hurst and Sawyer).

Background: Wineries licensed in Washington (domestic wineries) may act as distributors and retailers of wine of their own production. Such wineries must comply with applicable laws and rules relating to distributors and retailers.

A domestic winery may have up to two locations, separate from its manufacturing site, where the winery may serve samples and sell wine of its own production at retail. The Liquor and Cannabis Board must approve each additional tasting room.

Summary of Bill: The number of additional, off-site tasting rooms allowed under a domestic winery license is increased from two to four.

It is the Legislature's intent that at least 200 new domestic wineries will be created over the next six years. The Liquor and Cannabis board must electronically report to the House Technology & Economic Development Committee regarding the number of new domestic wineries. The first report is due June 30, 2018 and must continue every two years until June 30, 2022.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.