SENATE BILL REPORT

SHB 1742

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 Reported by Senate Committee On:

Commerce & Labor, February 28, 2014

Title: An act relating to allowing sales of growlers of wine.

Brief Description: Allowing sales of growlers of wine.

Sponsors: House Committee on Government Accountability & Oversight (originally sponsored by Representatives Wylie, Ryu, Hunter, S. Hunt and Moscoso).

Brief History: Passed House: 2/17/14, 97-0.

Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 2/28/14 [DP].

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Holmquist Newbry, Chair; Braun, Vice Chair; Conway, Ranking Member; Hasegawa, Hewitt, King and Kohl-Welles.

Staff: Edith Rice (786-7444)

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

Additionally, 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 (additional tasting rooms). The Liquor Control Board must approve each additional tasting room.

Summary of Bill: A domestic winery with additional tasting rooms may sell wines of its own production in kegs or growlers. Sale of wines in kegs or growlers must be in compliance with federal law and is for off-premises consumption. The growlers may be brought to the premises by the customer or supplied by the licensee and filled at the tap at the time of sale.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

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

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill is good for the environment.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Paul Beveridge, citizen.