This bill amends West Virginia Code §11-16-17, which pertains to the labeling of containers for nonintoxicating beer and nonintoxicating craft beer. The legislation makes it unlawful for any brewer, brewpub, manufacturer, distributor, or retailer to affix a label on beer containers that indicates the contents are brewed for a specific distributor or retailer, or to use any trademark other than that of a licensed brewer or manufacturer. However, it introduces a provision allowing brewers, brewpubs, manufacturers, or resident brewers who have not appointed a distributor for an existing brand to create a private label for their nonintoxicating beer or craft beer within their franchise territory.

The bill outlines specific requirements for these private labels, including that they must not promote intemperance or appeal to underage individuals. Additionally, the private label must be available exclusively for purchase by one licensee or individual who buys the entire production, must be sold at the regular price without discounts, and cannot exceed a quantity of 25 cases of sealed containers. This legislation aims to provide more flexibility for certain brewers in marketing their products while maintaining responsible advertising practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 11-16-17