SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5303

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 12, 2013

Title: An act relating to identifying wineries, breweries, and microbreweries on private labels.

Brief Description: Concerning the identification of wineries, breweries, and microbreweries on private labels.

Sponsors: Senators Harper and Ericksen.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 2/11/13.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR

Staff: Edith Rice (786-7444)

Background: Liquor industry members are prohibited from advancing or receiving monies or money's worth through their business practices. However, a variety of exceptions exist. Some examples of these exceptions are industry members providing retailers with branded promotional items of nominal value, or building and restocking retail can or bottle displays. Similarly, wineries, certificate of approval holders, and licensed retailers are permitted to identify the producers on private labels authorized under current law. This is not considered to be advancing or receiving monies or money's worth.

Summary of Bill: Breweries and microbreweries are permitted to identify the producer of their beer on private labels authorized under current law.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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 is a consumer protection issue, we ran out of time on this bill last year. Please pass it.

Persons Testifying: PRO: TK Bentler, WA Brewers Guild.