The bill amends section 561.14 of the Florida Statutes to allow licensed vendors who sell alcoholic beverages at retail to have an ownership interest in the production of those beverages under certain conditions. Specifically, it states that when a licensed vendor purchases or acquires alcoholic beverages for resale, they may hold an ownership interest in the production of those beverages, provided that all production, distribution, and retail sales comply with the Beverage Law. This change aims to expand the business opportunities for retail vendors in the alcoholic beverage industry.

Additionally, the bill maintains existing restrictions on vendors, such as prohibiting them from purchasing alcoholic beverages for resale from unlicensed individuals and limiting purchases between members of a pool buying group. It also specifies that no vendor can be part of more than one cooperative or pool buying group at a time and prohibits the importation of alcoholic beverages from outside the state. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1629 Filed: 561.14