This bill amends R.S.33:1-10 to expand the privileges of limited brewery license holders, specifically those producing no more than 300,000 barrels of beer annually. It allows these breweries to operate up to 15 off-premises salesrooms where they can sell malt alcoholic beverages in original packages and draft beer by the glass for consumption on or off the premises. A fee of $250 is established for each salesroom, and breweries are permitted to deliver their products to these locations using vehicles they own or lease. The bill also includes a prohibition on joint control and operation of salesrooms among licensees, enhancing regulatory compliance.
In addition to the new salesroom provisions, the bill updates existing language regarding the privileges of limited brewery license holders, aligning them more closely with those previously granted to wineries. It also introduces various definitions and provisions related to other types of licenses, such as farm winery, cidery, meadery, and distillery licenses, while outlining the associated fees and responsibilities of license holders. Overall, the bill aims to support local breweries by providing them with greater retail sales and distribution opportunities while ensuring regulatory oversight in the alcoholic beverage industry.