SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 6346
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 January 29, 2016
Title: An act relating to creating a special permit by a manufacturer of beer to hold a private event for the purpose of tasting and selling beer of its own production.
Brief Description: Creating a special permit by a manufacturer of beer to hold a private event for the purpose of tasting and selling beer of its own production.
Sponsors: Senators King, Conway, McAuliffe, Mullet and Chase.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Commerce & Labor: 1/29/16.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE & LABOR |
Staff: Richard Rodger (786-7461)
Background: Wine manufacturers and licensed distilleries may apply to the Liquor and Cannabis Board (LCB) for a special permit to taste and sell wine or spirits of their own production. The permit allows for the service and consumption at private, invitation-only gatherings held in a public place or business. The permit costs $10 and must be displayed during the event. The LCB may issue no more than 12 permits per year to each manufacturer.
The LCB is not authorized to issue a special permit to beer manufacturers to hold similar private events.
Summary of Bill: Beer manufacturers may apply to the LCB for a special permit to taste and sell beer of their own production. The permit allows for the service and consumption at private, invitation-only gatherings held in a public place or business. The permit costs $10 and must be displayed during the event. The LCB may issue no more than 12 permits per year to each wine manufacturer or distillery.
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: There are now 308 licensed brewers in Washington. One-quarter of them opened in the last two years. Many of these breweries have created clubs for their customers to join. This bill will put beer manufacturers on the same footing as wineries and distilleries by all allowing them to hold the same private, invitation-only events for their customers.
OTHER: We do not oppose this bill as it is limited to private events; however, we believe that the statute should prohibit anyone under the age of 21 from attending the events.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Annie McGrath, WA Brewers Guild.
OTHER: Seth Dawson, WA Assoc. for Substance Abuse Prevention.
Persons Signed In To Testify But Not Testifying: No one.