SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5492
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. |
As of February 4, 2011
Title: An act relating to the Washington beer commission.
Brief Description: Changing Washington beer commission provisions.
Sponsors: Senators Schoesler, Hatfield and Hewitt.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Agriculture & Rural Economic Development: 2/07/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE & RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT |
Staff: Sam Thompson (786-7413)
Background: Legislation enacted in 2006 permitted state-licensed beer brewers producing less than 100,000 barrels annually per location to create a new commodity commission if they opted to do so in a referendum process. Affected brewers subsequently voted to create the Washington Beer Commission (Commission).
With oversight by the Director of the Washington Department of Agriculture, the Commission promotes Washington beer and may conduct research, promotional, and educational campaigns. The Commission may also promote Washington-grown hops, malting barley, and wheat.
To fund its activities, the Commission assesses affected brewers and sells beer at Commission-sponsored beer festivals.
Summary of Bill: The 100,000 barrel annual production limit on brewers assessed and represented by the Commission is deleted, enabling any state-licensed brewer to be assessed and represented by the Commission.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
[OFM requested ten-year cost projection pursuant to I-960.]
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.