This bill amends and reenacts existing laws related to the distillation and distribution of alcoholic beverages in Louisiana. It introduces new definitions for terms such as "distill," "manufacturing distillery," and "self-distribution," clarifying the processes and entities involved in the production and distribution of distilled spirits. The bill allows manufacturing distillers to self-distribute their products to retailers under specific conditions, including a cap of 4,000 gallons of distilled alcoholic liquors annually and the requirement to hold appropriate permits. Additionally, it establishes a permit fee of $1,500 for manufacturing distillers engaged in self-distribution.

Furthermore, the bill permits manufacturing distilleries to host up to twelve contracted private events per year, where food and non-distilled alcoholic beverages can be served, provided that a lease agreement is submitted to the commissioner in advance. The manufacturing distilleries can charge a reasonable rental fee for these events and serve their own distilled products at standard prices. The legislation aims to enhance the operational flexibility of manufacturing distillers while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Statutes affected:
HB524 Original:
HB524 Engrossed:
HB524 Reengrossed:
HB524 Enrolled:
HB524 Act 127: