Legislation that would allow craft beer brewers and liquor distilleries to sell directly to consumers took a quick step forward Tuesday with unanimous approval from a House committee.
The vote means Senate Bill 85 could reach the House floor as early as Thursday and final passage next week.
The bill is seen as a compromise between alcohol manufacturers, who have long complained that Georgia's antiquated alcohol laws cost them business, and the beer and liquor wholesalers who have for generations controlled what types of booze is sold where.
Jim Chasteen, founder of ASW Distillery in Atlanta, said the bill is a "gigantic deal" for his business. Consumers would be able to come to the Midtown distillery, meet the owners, sample the goods and buy a bottle to take home.
“And that very likely leads to a second sale through a retail store,” he said.
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