This bill proposes to allocate certain winery licensing fees to the New Jersey Wine Promotion Account for a period of five years. Specifically, it mandates that the fees collected from various winery licenses, including farm and plenary wineries, wine blending licensees, instructional winemaking facilities, and out-of-State wineries, be deposited into this account. The funds will then be appropriated annually to the Department of Agriculture, which will utilize them to support the New Jersey Wine Industry Advisory Council in awarding grants aimed at research, development, and promotion of the state's wine industry.

The intent behind this legislation is to enhance the growth of the New Jersey wine industry by temporarily reallocating these licensing revenues to marketing efforts. In fiscal year 2024, the state collected nearly $680,000 from winery fees, and the sponsors believe that investing in the promotion of winery products will lead to increased sales and, consequently, higher future revenues for the state. The bill is set to take effect on the first day of the fourth month following its enactment.