SENATE BILL REPORT
HB 1342
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 March 20, 2015
Title: An act relating to permitting the sale of cider in microbrewery tasting rooms.
Brief Description: Permitting the sale of cider in microbrewery tasting rooms.
Sponsors: Representatives Bergquist, Condotta, Takko, S. Hunt, Wylie, Magendanz and Moscoso.
Brief History: Passed House: 3/03/15, 96-1.
Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 3/20/15.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR |
Staff: Richard Rodger (786-7461)
Background: A microbrewery license authorizes production of up to 60,000 barrels of beer per year. There are 280 licensed microbreweries in the state. Microbreweries are also permitted to sell beer for on-premises consumption and may sell beer produced by another microbrewery, provided that the other brewery's beers do not constitute more than 25 percent of the on-tap offerings.
Cider, or fermented apple or pear juice containing between 0.5 percent and 7 percent alcohol, is defined as wine under the liquor control statutes. Microbreweries may not serve wine without a separate license, such as a tavern license or a beer and/or wine restaurant license.
Summary of Bill: Licensed microbreweries may sell cider produced by a domestic winery for on-premises or off-premises consumption.
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: Microbreweries may not serve wine without a separate tavern license or a beer and/or wine restaurant license. We want to show our support for the growing cider businesses in Washington. The bill provides another avenue of choice for customers and provides a gluten-free choice. Cider businesses support this change.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Heather McClung, WA Brewers Guild; Marcus Robert, Tieton Cider Works, Owner.
Persons Signed in to Testify But Not Testifying: No one.