This bill seeks to amend Florida's Beverage Law to better support and regulate craft breweries. It introduces definitions for "barrel" (31 gallons) and "craft brewery" (producing fewer than 60,000 barrels annually) and allows for the transfer of malt beverages manufactured under contract to licensed facilities through a licensed distributor. Craft breweries will be permitted to sell and deliver up to 5,000 barrels of malt beverages annually to licensed vendors, conduct tastings and sales at events, and will no longer be required to file a surety bond. The bill also revises distribution agreements, mandating they be in writing and outlining conditions for termination, while establishing arbitration procedures for disputes.

Additionally, the bill modifies bond requirements for manufacturers and distributors based on business volume and clarifies that craft breweries can ship products without needing a distributor's license. It introduces provisions for the termination of distribution agreements under specific circumstances, such as bankruptcy or felony convictions, and emphasizes mutual consent for contract termination. The bill also establishes guidelines for alternative dispute resolution and contract brewing arrangements, ensuring compliance with federal and state laws. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the operational flexibility of craft breweries while maintaining necessary regulatory oversight, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1818 Filed: 561.37, 563.02, 563.022, 212.08, 561.4205, 562.14, 768.36, 817.36, 856.015, 1006.09