ATLANTA — Representatives with Georgia's craft brewing industry who have been pushing a senate bill aimed at helping brewers with distribution efforts said they're disappointed after S.B. 163 failed to advance out of the Senate Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee on Thursday.
Joseph Cortes, Executive Director of The Georgia Craft Brewers Guild, said the inaction by legislatures may force some breweries to close their doors this year.
"This setback deals a significant blow to the already struggling small breweries across the state," Cortes wrote in a press release.
The craft brewery advocate has been working over the last year to get lawmakers to vote on Senate Bill 163, which he said would provide a more conducive environment for small businesses to thrive. Cortes added that the failure to advance the bill will hinder brewers' ability to innovate, grow, and contribute to the local economy.
"Our small breweries are integral parts of their communities, providing jobs, driving tourism, and enriching the cultural fabric of Georgia. Yet, they are being held back by regulatory barriers that stifle their potential," wrote Cortes.
Georgia Beer Wholesalers opposed the bill, which would cut their bottom line by allowing small breweries to sell their products directly to local restaurants and stores.
Advocates for the craft beer industry are still urging lawmakers to reconsider and prioritize measures that provide the necessary flexibility and support for Georgia's small breweries.
While Cortes says it's not likely the bill will be revived before Crossover day due to committee rules; he says they will continue to push the bill next year and spend 2024 sharing its importance to legislatures.
The Georgia Craft Brewers Guild (GCBG) is the non-profit 501c6 trade association serving Georgia’s independent craft brewers through advocacy, education, and awareness.