Politics
Politics

Beer deal allowing direct sales from breweries advances in Georgia

Wild Heaven Brewery co-owners Eric Johnson and Nick Purdy draw a taste of their craft beer from a fermenting barrel at their brewery Monday, Nov. 17, 2014, in Decatur, Ga. David Tulis/AJC Special
Wild Heaven Brewery co-owners Eric Johnson and Nick Purdy draw a taste of their craft beer from a fermenting barrel at their brewery Monday, Nov. 17, 2014, in Decatur, Ga. David Tulis/AJC Special
By Kristina Torres
Jan 30, 2017

Legislation advanced Monday that would allow beer lovers to buy directly from Georgia's craft breweries and brew pubs.

Senate Bill 85, sponsored by state Sen. Rick Jeffares, R-McDonough, represents a compromise that would end a decades-old stand-off between the brewers and the state's beer wholesalers who for years have fought to protect their position as middleman between beer manufacturers and retailers.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution will again have Georgia’s largest team covering the Legislature. Get complete daily coverage during the legislative session at myAJC.com/georgialegislature.

In passing the bill, the Senate Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee made one change at the request of state Revenue Department officials. That was to include an effective date if the legislation became law: Sept. 1, 2017.

SB 85 now goes to the Senate Rules Committee, which will decide whether to allow a vote on the Senate floor.

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VIDEO: Legislative 101 - Where do boozy brunch and beer bills stand in Georgia?

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