As you may have heard, Maryland’s laws about brewing beer are among the most restrictive laws in brewing. Last year House Bill 1283 was passed by the Maryland General Assembly that modestly improved Maryland’s antiquated beer laws. But that bill was still far from welcoming to the craft beer industry.
Shortly after that House Bill 1283 passed, Comptroller Peter Franchot created a 40-member task force that went on to meet with people across the state over the last year to assess the state of brewing and distribution in Maryland. That effort has resulted in a group of bills that is now in the hands of the General Assembly. Many contemporary thinking Senators and Delegates have stepped up to support these extremely important bills.
As good as that is, more support is needed. You can make a difference by contacting your Senators and Delegates. And when you do, please be sure your communication, whether written in an email, posted on social media, or said in person, is polite and respectful so that your voice is heard. You can find the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of your Senators and Delegates at http://www.mdelect.net. Again that’s
ArcGIS Web Application
When you write, post, or call, urge them to support House Bill 518. House Bill 518 is known as the Reform on Tap Act and removes limits on manufacturing, sales and distribution.
If you love craft beer, make your voice heard. Contact your Senators and Delegates and share your enthusiasm for craft beer, your pride in Maryland and your strong interest in seeing Maryland become more welcoming to craft breweries and ask them to support House Bill 518.
Passing House Bill 518 means only good things for Maryland: more jobs and… more craft beer!
Cheers!
Jefferson
The Craft Beer Guy
Email: jward@thebayonline.com
