This bill amends several sections of the Idaho Code related to the definitions and licensing of brewers, dealers, and wholesalers of beer. Key changes include the definition of "brewer," which now specifies that a brewer can be licensed to manufacture beer both inside and outside of Idaho. Additionally, the bill clarifies that out-of-state small brewers producing fewer than thirty thousand barrels annually can obtain a brewer's retail license and act as wholesalers, provided they maintain a warehouse physically located within Idaho. This aims to ensure that both in-state and out-of-state small brewers are treated equally and that all beer products are subject to inspection for safety and regulatory compliance.

Further amendments include the requirement that licensed wholesalers and dealers must sell and distribute beer only from stocks that have been stored for at least twenty-four hours in a warehouse located within Idaho. The bill also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a physical presence in the state for accountability and regulatory oversight. The legislative intent behind these changes is to protect the health and safety of Idaho citizens while establishing a fair marketplace for beer distribution. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 23-1001, 23-1003, 23-1028