March 26, 2018

As the events of the 2018 legislative session nears its conclusion I must comment on a few of the things that have transpired. There seems to be a very sound reason public trust in government has reached historic lows. It appears as if at least some members of the Maryland General Assembly are working hard to live up to that damning reputation.
On Friday March 23rd an article appeared in Maryland Matters authored by Bruce DePuyt and Josh Kurtz, detailing the shenanigans surrounded the Reform on Tap Act of 2018 and its bloody death in the Economic Matters Committee. They also covered two other bills that are wending their way through the General Assembly that seek to strip duties from the office of the Comptroller of Maryland. The well sourced article detailed the comments and plans of Senate President Mike V. Miller to strip Comptroller Franchot of his duties as chief alcohol regulator, as well as stripping the Board of Public Works of its authority to dole out schools construction money. It is relevant to mention the Comptroller sits on the Board of Public Works.

The question to be asked is why certain members of the General Assembly would seek to change the way things are regulated and how money is spent in Maryland? Is there some catastrophic failure or dereliction of duty that would warrant this? According to Miller there is dissatisfaction in terms of how school construction funds are doled out (citing Baltimore County as an example) and Miller would like control over those decisions in his own grasp. Hmm… just to pause for a moment and look at the hot mess that has become Baltimore County Schools which can be traced (at least in part) right back to Dallas Dance- yes that Dallas Dance who plead guilty to perjury charges two weeks ago. He apparently concealed the ‘consulting’ money he took from contractors – the same contractors who won bids to work on the same Baltimore County Schools he was in charge of. That is called corruption and has absolutely nothing to do with the BPW. In fact Franchot is not alone on the BPW board- he sits with Governor Hogan and Treasurer Kopp, therefore this condemnation extends to all of them.

As for the alcohol regulation, well that in and of itself has been quite the ride. HB 1316 (funding a study to strip the Comptroller of his alcohol regulatory duties) appeared after the Reform on Tap Task Force presented its findings- the results of which came to be the Reform on Tap Act of 2018. The interesting and unmistakable timing should be noted. A brief look at the incredible work of the Comptroller’s field enforcement division and the amount of illegal alcohol they seize annually coupled with the complete crackdown on underage drinking belies any concerns feigned by Miller and his cronies. Removing alcohol regulation from the Comptroller’s office would create far more problems and substantially increase costs. The question becomes why it is Ok to spend taxpayer money on unnecessary and frivolous things?

The answer lies within the context of the Maryland Matters article (and many others) in two quotes. The first comes from Miller, “ Franchot’s nickname is Chameleon, because he changes his colors… and he has become shameful in terms of his political playing upon the feelings of the voters, rather than what needs to be done.”
The second quote comes from House Appropriations Chairwoman McIntosh, “That’s just politics, and HB 1316 exists because they don’t like Peter Franchot, and it doesn’t get any more political than that. It is intended as a swipe at Franchot.”

To sum up, Franchot is not falling in line with the colleagues in his party and is being punished. Yes there is a lot of name calling; it is called mudslinging for a reason. Of course mud balls were hurled at his chief of staff Len Foxwell too, few have been spared in this free for all. If demanding that Maryland school children have proper heating and air conditioning in their schools in 2018 is an egregious error in judgment and spending, I must be living in the wrong century. Having taught in 88 degree classrooms, I would be the first to address how little is learned in such an environment regardless of the age of the students. Miller used the term ‘beg-a-thon’ when referencing school representatives asking for funding before the BPW and it was curious. Perhaps it is more of a request to justify spending than it is a beg- a- thon, and lest we not forget that the public is involved and throwing their concerns into the arena for consideration as well. If Miller takes school spending from the BPW purview, it will be done behind closed congressional doors without regard or input for the voters need. That sounds an awful lot like HB 1283 which got us into the alcohol bill reform debacle in the first place…

This brings us full circle to the Reform on Tap Act of 2018 and it’s destruction in the House Economic Matters Committee. It wasn’t killed on merit; it was killed as payback and to preserve special interests. To put it into perspective- changing the brewery laws in Maryland helps not only the breweries, but the neighborhoods, the retailers, the distributors, the economy, and the Chesapeake Bay. Reform on Tap is relevant legislation, not the irrelevant policy fight that Miller termed it. Reform on Tap operates in the best interests of Maryland citizens and has overwhelming support from the populace. Despite Miller’s claims to the contrary all tiers of the industry were represented on the task force, and their concerns were heard and taken under consideration. Evidence abounds in neighboring states that loosening the laws (franchise laws, limits, etc.) around breweries has a positive not detrimental impact on all tiers, the economy, and the citizens. Additionally there has been no public health crisis affiliated with the lessening of restrictions. After all, this legislation is about increasing the availability of Maryland beer, not increasing the amount of beer over all. Many states in recent years are finally tackling the outdated, restrictive alcohol laws in their states. Vermont is the most recent to do away with Franchise laws for smaller breweries. It is only a matter of time before the entire nation repeals these onerous and debilitating regulations that have hung around the necks of our breweries like an albatross, slowly choking the life from this vital job creating industry. At least 4 members of the committee recognized this and supported HB 518 (Clippinger, Barkley, Frick, Waldstericher.)

Here is my final assessment. As far as I have seen, Comptroller Franchot has acted in the best interests of the people of Maryland. He has not been derelict in his duties. He has reached across party lines to further the economic and societal interests of Marylanders. Miller calls that being a Chameleon. I call it listening to the needs of the constituents that elected you and responding accordingly. Perhaps Miller and his cohorts in the House Economic Matters Committee should give that go for a change? Instead they engage in petty, partisan political sqaubbles and dictate that Franchot act against the needs of Marylanders to gain favor from his ‘party’. I believe it is Miller that has shown his true colors- acting in his own interests, and completely disregarding the will of the people he serves.
It is an election year folks. They serve at our pleasure- decide on your priorities and vote accordingly.
I don’t know about you but I am thoroughly looking forward to the Reform on Tap Act of 2019!!!

March 12, 2018 UPDATE

As wheels slowly turn in the Economic Matters Committee of the Maryland House of Delegates, we are anxiously awaiting a vote on HB 518 and the corresponding vote on the deleterious HB 1052. The votes will determine if these bills move on to the full House of Delegates for further consideration. It is not without irony that on Friday March 9, 2018 it was announced that North Carolina Craft Breweries Olde Mecklenburg, and NoDa Brewing were granted a hearing date for their lawsuit against the state of North Carolina which claims the three tier system and damaging franchise laws are unconstitutional.

What is quite interesting in all of this is the sworn deposition of North Carolina’s chief alcohol regulator Robert Hamilton. He testified that neither he nor any other North Carolina regulatory agencies could find any evidence supporting the need or the origin of the 25,000 barrel cap on self- distribution for breweries. They also could not demonstrate any detrimental impact if the limit was raised to 250,000 barrels. Hamilton stated that most of the alcohol regulations were put in place prior to Prohibition, supporting the brewery’s contention that the laws were outdated.

Last year the North Carolina Legislature had an opportunity to correct the restrictive, brewery killing laws by raising the limit for when franchise law kicks in to 200,000 (up from 25,000) barrels. Distributors stepped in and convinced the delegates NOT to follow through. Hmmm… this sounds awfully familiar. The hearing is set for March 16 (this Friday). We are all curious how this will progress, if at all. While there are certainly parallels between North Carolina and Maryland efforts, there are distinct differences.

In no way does HB 518 try to eliminate the three tier system in Maryland, nor completely dissolve franchise law because it does kick in at 300,000 barrels to protect distributors from predatory macro breweries. The reality is that most breweries will not self-distribute as they do not want the responsibility for maintaining a fleet of trucks in addition to manufacturing beer. What they desire is a competitive field where they can establish private contracts with distributors with mutually agreed upon terms, and they can terminate the arrangement if the distributor isn’t holding up their end. Currently it is a minimum of 180 days to decouple from a distributor (demonstrating cause for termination) which can be further extended- leaving breweries ‘stuck’ with a distributor for a year. During that time there is NO requirement for the distributor to deliver that beer, which could easily bring an end to brewing operations. Private contracts would also allow new distributors to establish themselves in Maryland, potentially easing the access for new breweries entering into the market by providing more choice.

While the North Carolina lawsuit may be a revelation to many, it is by no means the only state endeavoring to reform antiquated alcohol regulations and irrational franchise laws. Massachusetts attempted to reach a settlement between brewers and distributors with regard to franchise laws last year when the bill was tabled in January. Other states like Florida have also taken up the mantle to ‘dismantle’ franchise and outdated alcohol laws. This is a very good thing since the nature of the brewing industry has shifted dramatically since these archaic regulations were instituted. Our legal framework must reflect that.

One thing however stands squarely in the path of craft breweries pushing for legislative reform in each and every state – the distributors. They have a literal stranglehold on the breweries and they are not keen to release them from their grip. It appears their reach- or perhaps the reach of their lobbyists extends well beyond the breweries and into the corridors of the state houses. Give your representatives a call and let them know what you want to see enacted. Remember:

“Of the people,
By the people,
For the people…”

Make it count! www.MDelect.net
If my ears are not deceiving me the bell has begun to toll for antiquated franchise laws and it has been ringing for years: …

https://www.mercatus.org/publications/trouble-brewing-brewer-and-wholesaler-laws-restrict-craft-breweries

Understanding the Three-Tier System: Its Impacts on U.S. Craft Beer and You

Craft beer legislation is double-edged sword

1st Reform on Tap Guest Post submitted by Kendrick Doolan

It was time for you to hear an opinion other than my own on this very critical issue*

February 26, 2018

Like many others, I went down to Annapolis last night to take part in the democratic process. It was my first brush with politics outside of the election booth, and I greatly anticipated the experience. Brewers and their supporters flocked to our capital city, and we filled the chamber to overflowing. I had not registered to testify, as I am not a good speaker. Both sides leveled numerous charges at one another, but I would like to focus on the two primary arguments proffered by the board: public health and last year’s bill, but let’s start with a recap of Friday’s events.

When I arrived at the House of Delegates, the Economic Matters Committee Hearing Room on 6 Bladen Street was full. Those in support of HB518 were in the overflow room watching the simulcast video of the proceedings. The overflow room consistently contained over 30 people, sometimes swelling to as many as 50. The hearing began around 5:00 PM, and due to the late hour, the number of people testifying on HB518 shrank from 170 to 71. The majority of people testifying were brewers, but
liquor store owners such as Joe Petro, owner of Hair ‘O the Dog Wine and Spirits, columnists like Liz Murphy of Naptown Pint, and other industry leaders also shared their testimony. Those testifying in favor of HB518 were mostly concerned with breweries being allowed to serve and sell larger quantities of beer from the brewery. They argued that selling greater volumes out of the taproom would have a
larger economic impact on their local economies and communities. The hearing lasted approximately 4 hours. In my opinion, despite the pushback from the board, the hearing was a net positive in that it clearly demonstrated the broad support of HB518.

At several points in the testimony, the board asked the Comptroller and several brewers how much they had studied the impact the legislation would have on public health. We were treated to anecdotes about how much teens consume on prom night and how many lives are impacted by drunk driving. As someone with a dear friend who was maimed by a drunk driver, I in no way intend to demean or belittle the dangers of this terrible crime. However, the implications of this argument work counter to the board’s intent. If unlimited access to alcohol at Maryland’s 80-something breweries is a massive threat to public health, then I implore our board to address the colossal threat presented by our
state’s bars and liquor stores. These locations, which number in the thousands, are able to sell an unlimited amount of alcohol to anyone of age who walks in the door with a valid ID. The number of drunk drivers as a result of these establishments is staggering. When carried out to its logical conclusion, this argument results in calls for the return of Prohibition.

The board argued repeatedly that last year’s bill, HB1283, caused such a stir among the
community, so they decided to reverse it out of the kindness of their hearts. The line runs, if we in the beer community hated last year’s bill, we must love this year’s bill, as they are diametrically opposed. If the choice is between shooting an industry in the foot and taking aim at the head instead, you’ll understand our desire for a third option. Last year’s bill had two aspects that were a net positive: the barrel limit increase and legalizing contract brewing.

Prior to HB1283 in 2017, Maryland brewers were capped at 500 barrels of beer sold out of the taproom per year. In this, Maryland was the 50th most restrictive state regarding barrel caps. Once the bill passed, this cap was raised to 2,000 barrels, which could be increased to 3,000 provided the barrels were bought from a wholesaler. HB1052, proposed by Delegate Branch in 2018, would return the barrel cap to 500. HB518, Maryland’s Reform on Tap bill, would remove all barrel caps from taproom
sales, placing Maryland in a comparable position to its neighboring states.

Contract brewing has existed in Maryland for a number of years. In 2017, HB1283 formally and definitively made it legal. Prior to that, contract brewing was not explicitly prohibited. If contract brewing were made illegal, as HB1052 seeks to do, the following breweries would be forced to shutter, move, or make other arrangements within months: Peabody Heights, Goonda Beersmiths, Full Tilt, Brawling Bear, Ravenbeer, Mad Science, Hoop Tea, Midpoint, Seawolf. Since HB1283 made contract brewing legal, HB518, Maryland’s Reform on Tap bill, would leave this provision untouched.

Many brewers spent thousands of dollars expanding their facilities under the notion that these new limits under HB1283 were here to stay. These brewers will have their investments rendered valueless by legislative fiat. Thousands of barrels of beer will be not made, people will not be hired, equipment will sit unused, and property will lie vacant. This is unfair to Maryland entrepreneurs who are having their stability threatened by wishy-washy legislators in Annapolis. Instead of restricting
Maryland small business, we should instead make Maryland’s brewery laws more open to growth. HB518 truly opens Maryland’s craft brewing laws to growth.

 

 

February 9, 2018

Legislative Insanity
Never underestimate the effort those in a position of power will exert to retain that power. The events of today fully bear witness to this harrowing fact. Those members of the Maryland House of Delegates that sought to completely derail the craft brewing industry last year in Maryland while favoring Guinness are at it once again. Delegate Talmadge Branch and his cohort Dereck Davis, who also happens to chair the Economic Matters Committee (alcohol legislation) have submitted a bill for the 2018 legislative session (HB1052) that would KILL CONTRACT BREWING in MARYLAND. In addition, it would also roll back the taproom sales to 500 barrels per year, unless the brewery produces more than 1,000,000 barrels per year. There is only ONE brewery in the state that has any chance of reaching that- Guinness.

It has become undeniably clear that these legislators are NOT ACTING in the BEST INTERESTS of Maryland citizens. They are behaving as spoiled children that cannot see beyond the lollipop they were denied in the candy store, and chose to destroy the entire candy store in retaliation. This is an outrage for those of us that understand the economic, agricultural, and community impact these breweries have on Maryland, and a manipulative game to those in power – much like the tiger plays with a mouse before tearing its wee limbs off and eating it.

Rest assured I will not accept this fate, and I will not allow the breweries of Maryland to accept this fate, nor the farmers, nor the communities that rely upon them. The time has come to demonstrate the power of the voice- and the vote. Let our voices be heard in unison fighting for our communities, our family, our friends and the breweries that have revitalized Maryland. SILENCE is CONSENT. If we have learned anything this past year it is NOT to stay quiet. We MUST stand together, our voices MUST be heard, and we MUST be louder than the lobbyist’s dollars that line the campaign coffers of these so-called civil servants.

UPDATE: Guinness has since responded disavowing HB1052

 

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT!!!!

It is time to show your support for the Reform on Tap Act of 2018 now known as HB 518. The hearing for the Bill is rapidly approaching (February 23). The Mayors are coming out in force, and the people need to follow suit. We need your show of support, your voices, your passionate invocations for the breweries and the towns you love! Every community that boasts a brewery thrives! The Chesapeake Bay is also one of the greatest recipients. Maryland breweries are the economic driver and everyone benefits- even those that avoid the malty goodness! Help breweries #SavetheBAY, help breweries #SaveMainStreet – #SaveMDBeer- NOW is the time to act! Don’t look back and think YOU could have done something to save your local brewery- ACT NOW!

Let the games begin, and the money change hands?

Well it seems we have glimpsed a mere preview of the upcoming 2018 Maryland legislative session. Dereck Davis, Michael Busch, et al have begun what can only be described as a disinformation campaign (please note how the synonymous and overused term ‘fake news’ was left out!) An outsider with no discernable investment in Maryland’s alcohol laws, and a rather shady character at that, has suddenly emerged on the scene to challenge the validity and integrity of Comptroller Franchot and his Reform on Tap Act of 2018. The mysterious cross country entity (Nebraska by way of North Carolina) by the name of Diane Riibe is the front of an organization called the U.S. Alcohol Policy Alliance. She penned a letter to the Daily Record condemning Franchot’s Reform on Tap Act as ‘misguided’ and an open invitation for more public harm via alcohol related death/injury/illness. That of course could not be further from the truth.

Fear not fair citizens, as justice was served in the form a pointed and stout defense of the integrity of both Franchot and the Act by his Chief of Staff Mr. Len Foxwell. Foxwell wasted no time in dismantling Riibe’s slanderous, and patently false accusations. In a detailed letter, every point was addressed using facts as evidence supporting Comptroller Franchot’s dedication to stopping underage drinking, drunk driving, and a host of other alcohol related issues. Foxwell adroitly noted that the Act will help communities thrive through job creation, neighborhood revitalization, tourism, and funding for schools and critical infrastructure. He also quite rightly pointed out that Riibe was formerly the head of a Temperance organization in Nebraska known as Project Extra Mile, which was audited and found to have misused both federal and state grant money. Other claims assert that the group (supposedly a nonprofit) was using federal grant money for lobbying efforts- which is against the law. Riibe was replaced at Project Extra Mile. She has been associated with the (shadow group) U.S. Alcohol Policy Alliance (note the bogus website) that has been hosting conferences lobbying for Prohibition guised as temperance. Many of the conference presenters are people Riibe worked with in Nebraska at Project Extra Mile. Riibe is a lobbyist plain and simple, and a quick read of the ‘Conference Objectives’ confirms that.

Now fast forward to December 2017, just a few weeks after the details of the Reform on Tap Act 2018 were released. Dereck Davis while espousing his, “No need to change HB1283” rhetoric held ‘behind closed doors sessions’ in a failed attempt to remove alcohol enforcement from the Comptroller’s purview, Much of Riibe’s diatribe mimicked Davis in both tenor and delivery as Mr. Foxwell so astutely pointed out. If you haven’t put the puzzle pieces together yet, let me spell it out. Davis, Busch, et al have hired a lobbying firm to block the passage of the Reform on Tap Act 2018 via false accusations, and fear mongering to a level not seen since the Women’s Christian Temperance Movement forced the Volstead Act through Congress in 1919. The most hypocritical thing about this is their motivation for blocking the Reform on Tap Act has nothing to do with temperance, quite the contrary in fact, it is all about the money flowing into their campaign coffers from the liquor distributors.

After Repeal, a compact was made with the American people that we would never revisit that failed experiment. Instead, morally bankrupt politicians are using teetotaler’s fears to line their pockets with funds from alcohol distributors while feigning concern for the health and safety of the citizens. It all comes down to power and money. If you have any doubts read it for yourself, as there is a long history of wholesalers influencing politicians with money. Ignore the man behind the curtain at your own peril.

 Reform on Tap Critical Update: Action Needed

Reform on Tap Update
December 6, 2017
In what can only be described as a sneak attack upon Comptroller Franchot’s effort to reform the brewery laws in Maryland, Delegate Dereck Davis launched the first barrage of artillery yesterday. On Repeal Day (December 5, 2017) the House Economic Matters Committee (EMC), of which Davis is chair, met without the inclusion of a representative from the Comptroller’s office. If you think it sounds suspicious, it is highly unusual not to include the branch of government responsible for the topic of discussion. The EMC met to deliberate taking Alcohol Regulation away from the Comptroller’s office.

The Maryland Comptroller’s office has maintained control of alcohol regulation, taxation, and enforcement for several decades, creating what can only be described as a well-oiled machine in a particularly squeaky state. There is no doubt it would prove a MAJOR disruption to the system of alcohol distribution, sales, and of course manufacturing if it was removed from the Comptroller’s capable team. Honestly, there is absolutely no need for this relocation. Financially the implications are vast and extremely detrimental for every tier involved in the three tier system. Why would this even be a consideration? Simply put this is Davis’ power play to stop the Reform on Tap Act of 2018 from gaining any traction. Davis clearly thinks intimidation and shady back room deals are going to work to keep voters in the dark, and the best interests of Maryland and its citizens off of his special-interest laden agenda.

Silence as a response to abuse of power never ends well. History has borne this out repeatedly from Napoleon, to Hitler, to Stalin. Silence is taken as acquiescence, leading to even greater abuses, which often cannot be undone. The Reform on Tap Act of 2018 is critical. It is the impetus for change, predominantly for growth of the economy, jobs, and the neighborhoods so desperate for revitalization. All of these things breweries provide. It is beyond preposterous that an elected official that is ‘supposed’ to serve in the best interests of all of the citizens of Maryland would not only refuse to support the Act, but intentionally sabotage it via such extreme measures. One MUST ask why Davis would want to stunt this growth that is so beneficial for everyone, including the three tiers. Perhaps a look at Naptown Pint’s write up on campaign donations will shed some light upon his motivations. Follow the money people- not into the pockets of deserving, hard-working Maryland citizens, but into the pockets of politicians with exceedingly questionable ethics.

Silence is consent. Do not allow this to progress. This is a battle that can be fought and won. Make your phone calls today. Call Delegate Davis, Mike Busch, and all those that are standing in the way of Maryland! Your votes count and 2018 is an election year. They need a harsh reminder of that. Fight for what you want before it is gone.
#TermLimits
#SaveMDBeer
#BreweriesSaveMainStreet
#ReformonTap2018

Reform On Tap Act of 2018

Monday November 20, 2017
The Comptroller released the details of his legislative package on this cold November Monday. It was a ray of sunshine, sprinkled with hope in an otherwise bleak year for Maryland craft breweries. As I began recording the details of this package for publication, I found myself writing 1987 instead of 2017. It isn’t truly a surprise, as the subconscious mind makes an appearance at critical moments to awaken the senses, and the memories. In many ways the circumstance Maryland breweries find themselves in today, due to the heinous legislation dumped upon them, is so antiquated it feels as if we have travelled back in time thirty years. This is reminiscent of the 1980’s, when Hugh Sisson and George Della worked in concert to change the hearts and minds of the legislature and legalize the opening of brewpubs for the first time since Repeal. It is 2017 and we are retracing those steps, fighting for something so simple, yet seemingly beyond the comprehension of certain irascible politicians in Annapolis.

Let us consider for a moment the gravity of what has transpired in this supposedly capitalistic country we live in, where entrepreneurs are told they are the backbone of the economy and represent the American dream of starting with nothing and building a legacy. Unfortunately, that is no longer the case in the Free State. In fact, if I didn’t know better I would assume HB1283 was a 1930’s era soviet economic policy. The brewery laws have indeed gone backwards, from the limited operational hours, to the absurd requirement to buy-back their own beer from a distributor they are forced to use (due franchise laws) before they can then sell it in their own taproom. This ridiculous law actually requires the beer to be taken from the brewery, loaded onto the distributor’s trucks, driven to the distribution facility, and then unloaded into the warehouse before being loaded back onto to the trucks and taken back to the selfsame brewery for sale. Many would laugh at this charade masquerading as ‘necessary’ policy. Most are incredulous that something so inane could be written into law. Only pointed political and financial self-interest could create this miasma of a bill and force it through the legislature.

The question now becomes how to proceed forward, and what is reasonable, fair, and necessary to protect the 3rd greatest job creating industry in the nation, and entice it to remain within the borders of our once free state. Here is Comptroller Franchot’s proposed reform package for the upcoming 2018 legislative session in Annapolis:

1. No annual barrel limits on Class 5, 7, or 8 breweries.
2. No limit to the number of barrels sold in taprooms, thus eliminating the buy-back provision.
3. No limit to the amount of beer individuals can buy at Class 5 breweries.
4. Individuals no longer have to participate in an event, or a brewery tour to purchase beer from the brewery for off-premise consumption.
5. Class 5 breweries SHALL be issued a class ‘B’ or ‘D’ license to sell beer in their locality.
6. Breweries selling less than 300,000 barrels annually will not be subject to franchise laws. They can (like all other businesses) establish private contracts with distributors under mutually agreed upon terms. This also protects the distributors (via franchise law) from macro-breweries (like Budweiser) pulling out of a contract and destroying their operation.
7. Breweries selling less than 300,000 barrels annually have no limit to self-distribution.
8. Contract brewers will have no restrictions on taproom sales, nor other impediments to starting as long as they produce in excess of 50 barrels per year. New contract brewers will be issued a two year provisional license to get up and running. If they exceed 50 barrels, they can apply for permanent licensing within their classification (5, 7, and 8). Provisional licenses may be extended beyond the 2 year provisional period at the discretion of the Comptroller’s office.

*Please note Class 6 licenses were not addressed, as there is only one Class 6 (Brewpub) in Maryland- Dempseys. No new Class 6 licenses would be issued. Dempseys would continue as a Class 6 without interruption unless they chose switch to a Class 7 (Brewery & Restaurant).

In reality this reform package provides common sense legislation that will spur manufacturing in Maryland, create jobs, revitalize neighborhoods, and build infrastructure. The distributors are protected, and breweries will be allowed to thrive, unfettered. The only question left is whether the incestuous legislative cabal in Annapolis with its special interests and unseemly comingling will ever let it see the light of day. Will the politicians act in the best interests of the people of Maryland, or just continue shady dealings in the dark back halls of our capital? Perhaps they should all be gifted with a copy of Adam Smith’s Wealth of Nations for the Christmas holiday. They might actually learn something.

Maryland craft brewing is a multimillion dollar industry ($637 Million), not a couple of dabblers with a Mr. Beer kit in the garage. It is incomprehensible why legislators would want to stifle that progress, along with tax revenues! Perhaps the lessons of Prohibition and the devastating job loss were forgotten. It is never about the craft breweries alone, but the affiliated trades that also profit, creating even more jobs and revenue. Keith Wolcott of ACS brandmybeverage.com (glassware) presented his case as one of those businesses benefitting from the growth in craft beer,

“Craft brewing is one of the most powerful economic engines in the nation. A vote for the Reform on Tap Act is a vote for more jobs.” (Wolcott)

Adam Benesch echoed those sentiments with his opening remarks, noting that Union’s intent was to hire 100 employees in the next seven to ten years. That of course only addresses the Union Craft side of job creation. Just imagine the impact on all of those associated industries mirroring Union’s expansion. If craft breweries leave Maryland, so go the jobs, the neighborhoods, the people, and the taxes. Perhaps the politicians that put Maryland in this predicament in the first place ought to be the ones to go.

Make your voices heard, and your votes count.

#Save MD Beer
#Breweries Save the Bay
#Breweries Save Main Street

A World Without Limits

Reform On Tap Summary of Findings

Wednesday November 8, 2017 marked the final gathering of the Reform on Tap Task Force. The presentation of findings was as expected, a war cry for change. The report not only summarized the months of discussions, statistical reports, and evidentiary material previously delivered, but synthesized this known material with new, unpublished data.

One of the highlights included community reinvestment, with a detailed account of breweries like Denizens, Evolution, and Union Craft opening in vacant retail and industrial spaces, removing urban blight and revitalizing those communities. They have brought about a renaissance in economically depressed neighborhoods and will continue to do so on a vastly larger scale if unshackled from the current, oppressive HB1283 and the myopic legislative members that supported it. This was buttressed by the beer tourism industry data that not only puts ‘heads in beds’, but reinvests in the local economies, with 67% of the money spent on local craft beer remaining in those communities.

A critical and oft overlooked component was brought to the fore once again with the buy local/ grow local campaign supported throughout the state. Maryland’s once waning agricultural industry is gaining healthy ground yet again due to the rise of craft breweries. There has been an increase in locally grown malting grains (rye, barley, and wheat) and hops. As a result we have also seen an increase in malthouses to malt the locally grown grain. Additionally, University of Maryland College of Agriculture has partnered with farmers and brewers in this endeavor along with the Maryland Agricultural Resources Based Industry Development Corporation. As evidenced by the John Porcari presentation (October 25) similar economic growth was witnessed through the local brewery/local agriculture partnership in New York State. Agriculture is more than an economic component and it is worth reminding readers that the planting of malting grains helps the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem! Rye and barley that are suitable for malting actually hold harmful, corrosive elements like nitrogen within the plant’s pulp, thus preventing it from leeching into the soil and into the Bay. A suggestion here is to remind the legislature that is dead set against Maryland breweries that they too can help save the Chesapeake Bay they purport to care so much about, by following the Task Force’s recommendations. Drink local, save local.

Here is where the summary treads on ground both well covered and uncovered- economic impact. At the October 25th meeting, Andrew Schaufele presented his economic impact study on Maryland craft breweries. It was to say the least, enlightening. The $637.6 million in economic output from local breweries, coupled with the 6,541 jobs was eye opening, but the figure that most of us took away was the significant fact that for every $20,000 in revenue generated by craft breweries, $132,405 is created in economic activity in Maryland. That is one heck of a return on investment! Let us not forget that there is a 54% greater economic benefit to local communities from craft beer produced in Maryland.

Unfortunately this is where the numbers take a decided nose dive; rightfully, alarmingly so. The Comptroller’s office deemed this segment of calculations ‘unfulfilled potential’, and for good reason. Alas, the BRE (Bureau of Revenue Estimates) economic impact study (2016 data) revealed the following:

1) Maryland’s craft beer per capita economic impact of $133,670 per 1,000 residents ranked LAST within the region.
2) The 1.1 jobs per 1,000 residents generated by Maryland craft beer ranks LAST in the region
3) The $38,000 in labor income per 1,000 residents that is generated in Maryland ranks LAST within the immediate region.
4) Maryland consumes 275,000 bbls of craft beer annually, while producing only 247,000 bbls.

We remain a net importer of beer and this must change. I refer you back to that 54% greater economic impact figure for locally produced craft beer at this juncture.

No wonder we are ranked 47th in overall economic impact for craft breweries nationwide. In large part HB1283 and the legislature that supported it are duly responsible for these abysmal rankings. This most recent failure of the legislature to act on behalf of the craft beer industry was merely the latest, crowning more than half a century of harmful, arbitrary, anti-craft beer laws. To quote Len Foxwell, “It is highly irregular for a government to impose restrictions on how much a business can sell.” This also explains the Commonwealth of Virginia’s ease of mining our breweries from Maryland when they subscribe to a program that welcomes craft breweries and their inherent economy building potential:
• No barrel limits
• No off premise sales limits
• No on premise sales limits
• No limits on number of events
• No self-distribution caps
• Better franchise terms
• Public hours until 12 am
• Online reporting and payment of taxes
• Multiple financial incentives for investment in a brewery in VA

That is enough to lure any brewery away from Maryland and its antiquated, industry killing laws. Based upon the Comptroller’s May 2017 survey, Maryland voters want this system to change. Most find it outdated, confounding, and an egregious, rather appalling inhibition to economic growth. That attitude is the impetus to change in the state. There is a basis of mutual respect, and shared interests among all members of the three tier system. It is a co-dependent relationship. The breweries do not want to own a fleet of trucks, they need distributors- but through mutually agreed upon, individually determined contractual terms, not impossible to extricate from franchise laws. With the growth in craft breweries, more distributors are needed in Maryland to deliver the myriad brews to retail establishments. Retailers benefit from a selection of local craft brewery offerings, which brings in loyal consumers (Millennials) with disposable incomes. In a free market competition is good, and challenges each entity to be the best they possibly can be in all three tiers. When permitted to operate unimpeded, everybody profits, and the economy benefits, which is good for everyone in Maryland. What is the fix to achieve this state of economic bliss?

Again Porcari’s presentation on the New York State craft brewing industry must be referenced as it can serve in large part as a template for Maryland and the path forward. There must be involvement from the Governor, supported fully by the Comptroller. Not only must an Ombudsman be appointed by the Governor’s office to orchestrate the growth, and eliminate much of the bureaucratic confinements that constrain progress, legal reforms are critical and must be the precursor to any growth plan. Breweries must be unshackled and allowed to thrive, and with their ascent, so goes our economy.

The title of the summary, A World without Limits also happens to be the solution:

“Maryland’s craft beer industry will never fulfill its true growth potential until Maryland’s craft beer laws are fundamentally changed.”

Removing limits to production, sales, hours, events, and self-distribution is a start. Additionally, changing franchise laws imposed by an arbitrary legislature is key, along with allowing private contracts between breweries and distributors. Lastly, nurture the industry with limitless potential.

Breweries need to sit down personally with each of the legislative members in their district and lay out the evidence. Put a face to the business they are destroying either through ignorance or intent. Make it personal, as the brewers that have invested their lives (and money) building breweries in Maryland certainly have. Consumers need to be just as active. The Comptroller’s ‘World Without Limits” legislative package for the craft brewing industry is set to be released in less than two weeks. Call and write your legislators, and VOTE for those that support unleashing the limitless economic potential of craft breweries in Maryland. Always remember, they serve at the pleasure of the people. Perhaps they need a stern reminder of that.

“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.”
Lao Tzu (courtesy of Justin Bonner)

It is time to realize what our Maryland Breweries can become- unleash their potential and find out!

#Save MD Beer
#Breweries Save the Bay
#Breweries Save Main Street

Nothing to Fear but Economic Growth

October 25, 2017

The latest Reform on Tap Task Force meeting was held Wednesday, October 25, 2017 at JHU. This meeting offered a cornucopia of information on the economic impact of the craft beer industry in Maryland and nearby states. This incredibly thorough program witnessed reports and revelations presented by a host of critical stakeholders knowledgeable in the craft brewing industry.

The session was kicked off with an homage to (the resurrected) Towson University baseball team by Secretary of Commerce Mike Gill. In his presentation, ‘Maryland: Open for Beerness, Committed to Craft’ Gill noted that craft beer in Maryland has had a good run, but could do much better. Gill could not comprehend why Maryland wasn’t optimizing assets in commerce like craft beer, particularly when it ranks third in overall job growth nationwide. This he remarked, was a potent remedy for ‘distressed’ counties like Caroline, Somerset, and Worcester, all of which would directly benefit from manufacturing jobs created by craft breweries. Some of this economic aid is a derived from the vacation industry generated by craft breweries, which are already responsible for a 4% increase in tourism revenue. Winie Roche, Executive Director Maryland Tourism Coalition echoed this sentiment stating that, “When it comes to beer tourism our competition is eating our lunch and washing it down with craft beer.” Why? Beercations are booming, equating to ten million people per year, to the point that Travelocity has established a Beer Tourism Index. Maryland needs to be on the index, and it needs to be number one. City Beer Tours recently expanded to Baltimore, noting the past decade of craft brewery growth, only to halt expansion once HB1283 was passed. These sentiments were reiterated by panelist Ann McGinnis Hillyer, CEO State Ventures and publisher of Shore Craft Beer. Craft beer literally gets ‘heads in beds’ on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. In large part this was a result of the efforts by McGinnis Hillyer promoting craft beer tourism to the tune of sold out beer festivals, and the marked shift by local establishments to exclusively carry local craft beer. The bottom line for McGinnis Hillyer is that 67% of the money spent on local craft beer stays local. The number one element for the economic viability of a small town is the establishment of a craft brewery.
“Breweries Save Main Street!”

This was something presented in the recent Breweries and Neighborhood Revitalization article, that was critically buttressed by the analytics and impact study conducted by the Director of the Bureau of Revenue Estimates, Andrew Schaufele. The report can be found on the Comptroller’s website, and the results are jaw dropping. Craft breweries in Maryland were responsible for creating 6,541 jobs (2016 data), with an economic impact of $637.6 million! The economic value to Maryland is 54% greater per unit when the craft beer is brewed in Maryland. This is direct support for McGinnis Hillyer’s contention regarding breweries saving Main Street. Perhaps the easiest number for folks to grasp was Schaufele’s calculation that for every $20,000 that flows into a Maryland brewery, the total output is $132,405. This annually translates into $53 million in state and local tax revenues, and $55 million in federal tax revenues. Breweries are indeed economic drivers in the communities, and Maryland has so much room for growth if the handcuffs imposed by the legislature are removed. Schaufele’s numbers also revealed that Maryland craft breweries, if allowed to grow without current restrictions on hours, barrel limits, and noisome franchise laws, would have a total economic impact of $2 billion annually!

To provide further evidence to the unrealized potential of the craft beer industry, attendees heard from John Porcari, President US Advisory Services. Porcari shared the state of New York’s multi-year comprehensive strategy that fomented New York craft beer into the (as of 2013) $3.5 billion industry responsible for more than 11,000 jobs. The program was broken down into sectors. The Agricultural Sector included university collaborations to cover everything from planting and harvesting hops and grains, all the way through supply chain, down to the beer quality testing kits. The second was License Reform for farm and craft breweries, including a 20% ‘local’ content provision that spurred the building of eleven malt houses in New York. This also centered on streamlining paperwork and eliminating requirements, all with the support of New York’s liquor regulator. Economic Development Assistance was third with a focus on job tax credits, startup assistance, and a huge tax credit for opening breweries in ‘blighted’ areas (not unlike Maryland ‘distressed’ counties program.) Fourth, and perhaps key to the success of the program was firm, unwavering leadership from the state’s governor. A tutorial on possibilities in Maryland, provided certain changes are made legislatively.

An honest, but stark contrast to the giddy potential of Maryland craft beer was presented by its stalwart Director, Kevin Atticks. His report was a grim reminder of the detritus that has overtaken the industry in response to our careless legislature and the institution of HB1283. Atticks pulled no punches with, ‘We Must Strengthen Maryland Brewing Industry’s Economic Potential’. “Virginia has been actively recruiting our breweries and we handed them over on a silver platter via HB1283. The Governor of Virginia, his Secretary of Commerce, and his Tourism Secretary are all personally calling our brewers, enticing them to relocate to Virginia where there are no limits to the off premise sales, no limits on the number of events per year, kinder franchise laws, and the breweries can remain open until midnight.” The greatest example of this lure came with Atticks’ revelation that Maryland lost two major breweries due to the passage of HB1283, Stone Brewing and Ballast Point. Ballast Point had the location chosen near the port, adjacent to I95 when they pulled out once HB1283 passed. Most have already heard that Flying Dog (as of October 20, 2017) chose not to invest $60 million into their 32 acre brewery expansion, citing legislative and regulatory issues as the cause. Entrepreneurs are smart, and know when to cut their losses in a hostile climate. When asked about lost revenue from these three breweries alone, Atticks had not yet tabulated the figures, but once factored should be front and center at the 2018 legislative session. “Only 7% of beer sold in Maryland is made in Maryland. Imagine if 50 of the 85 breweries in Maryland doubled capacity (as Flying Dog intended) and the resultant economic impact for the Free State.” Atticks attributed the restrictive legislative chokehold placed on craft breweries in Maryland to nothing more than fear.

Fear as they say is a cruel and wicked mistress. Sometimes fear is warranted and prevents humans from making deadly or catastrophic mistakes. It also inhibits and retards progress. One must ascertain the root of the fear to then conquer it. If it is as Atticks suggests: fear of the craft beer industry levelling off, that is called ‘the market’, and that is how a supposed free market economy works. That same market has been changing for years, and we must adjust to it, not run from it, or try to over-regulate it into submission. The solution according to Atticks is the liberalization of restrictions. Dare I suggest, based on the tenor of many of the distributors present (most of whom left before presentations were concluded) that the fear is less about loss of control (which was something previously contemplated) and more about fear of competition.

Based upon the testimony from Porcari, Atticks, Schaufele, and lastly Greg Parnas (DC Beer) the lessening of restrictions absolutely promotes growth of craft breweries, along with jobs, and profits in all three tiers. The fear resides with the wholesalers, not over self-distribution (as most breweries will hand the responsibility for delivery over to a wholesaler) but competition from new distributors. It is plain and simple actually. If franchise laws are abolished, the state is open to new distributors willing to negotiate lucrative contracts with craft brewers to establish their businesses. This may strike fear into the hearts (and revenues) of the monopolistic wholesalers that control beer distribution through antiquated, seemingly lifelong (impossible to extricate from) contracts. New distributors would finally be welcome in Maryland, delivering more local craft beer to retailers, and perhaps bumping that 7% to 33% or more. If these wholesalers are as fabulous as they have professed over the last several meetings, they should not fear competition but welcome it, lending veracity to their claim!

The evidence is overwhelming and undeniable after this meeting that the potential for a complete and positive transformation in Maryland is upon us; community by community, through job creation, growing economies, and neighborhood revitalization. The impetus for this critically needed change- Maryland craft breweries. It is time for the legislature and all three tiers to acknowledge that craft breweries are good for Maryland citizens, and act for the greater good -helping those they profess to serve by placing petty self- interest aside. Let Maryland thrive. The Free State isn’t feeling very free.

#Breweries Save Main Street

Town Hall

October 4, 2017
This week witnessed another meeting of the Reform on Tap Task Force. Held at Denizens Brewing Company in Silver Spring, the fabulous beer was complemented by equally magnificent co-owner (and the evening’s hostess) Julie Verratti. It was not the structured meeting as we have seen in the past, but an open forum for dialogue with task force members. It was also an opportunity for all attendees to hear words of fortitude from Comptroller Franchot, and a call to action for craft beer drinkers across the state.

“Reform of the craft beer industry is the number one issue of the upcoming legislative agenda.”  Peter Franchot 10/4/17

Peter Franchot wants Maryland to become the brewing mecca of the United States, eclipsing California, Colorado, and Pennsylvania by placing first, second, or third in the nation for craft beer production. This is a tall order considering the restrictive legislation that was implemented through HB1283. It was one of the most glaring examples of a state legislature operating in its own self-interest by completely disregarding the concerns of the people they claim to serve. Franchot reminded everyone that legislation  “…should not be happening in smoke-filled backrooms without public knowledge,” as was the case with HB1283. He promised to serve the citizens, not the politicians, and do what is best for the people of Maryland. In the day and age of politicians making all sorts of promises they never intend to keep, it is a welcome respite. He has earned this confidence. As Verratti succinctly stated, “I challenge anyone to say Franchot hasn’t helped the breweries in this state.”

The timing for reform could not be better. Momentum has shifted in the country creating an extremely favorable climate for craft beer. In Maryland there is a groundswell of support for change that favors craft beer manufacturing. Economically this will benefit everyone, even those that choose not to partake of the malted liquid gold so many of us revere. Just last week the Brewers Association of America released their 2016 economic impact report for the industry. The craft brewing industry contributed a whopping $67.8 billion to the economy, creating 456,373 jobs. For Maryland those numbers equate to $826 million, leaving us ranked 24th in the nation. We can do better, but the laws must change to foment the industry. The other aspect to note as I have oft recounted, is the generous nature of craft brewers, not only giving back to their communities through job creation, but neighborhood revitalization and philanthropic endeavors. Last year alone, United States craft breweries contributed in excess of $73 million dollars to charitable causes.

The question remains, why would any legislature hinder beer manufacturing, once they understood how much craft breweries contribute to the state? Vocal advocacy is required not just from the supportive and determined Comptroller who officially launched his reelection bid Thursday, but from the myriad craft beer drinkers across the state who must be heard throughout the halls of the statehouse in Annapolis. Politics may divide us, but Maryland beer unites us all!
Sláinte!

Retail Sales

September 6, 2017
The Reform on Tap Task Force tackled the sticky sector of retail alcohol sales this week. A line up of guest speakers from the third tier were present, followed by a Q & A that was opened up to the public. John Bodnovich, Executive Director of American Beverage Licensees detailed the amount of retail sales in the alcohol trade and specifically addressed Maryland’s sales, employment, and economic metrics in the industry. Although Bodnovich refrained from taking up a position on privatization or franchise laws, he did offer opinions on the sector. He addressed sales in states that sold alcohol in chain stores (grocery/big box) specifically noting that their offerings were limited. He also noted that the private label products (booze created specifically for that chain) created an environment for (strong) influence upon consumers and what they purchased. This was merely the beginning of a cautionary tale.

The sentiment of caution for allowing the sale of alcohol in grocery and big box chains (Walmart, Costco, etc.) became a theme of the meeting. Distributors offered that chain stores like Safeway or Walgreens often have a remote buyer (out of state) that demonstrates a decided lack of interest in a local product they have no familiarity with and ultimately refuse to carry. This fear was echoed by smaller breweries concerned about getting their product into chain stores when they were still building their brand. Larger breweries have achieved name recognition to get the placement in big box stores in such states that allow it.

Retailers were present in large numbers at this meeting to demonstrate their support NOT to allow the sale of alcohol in grocery or chain stores. Many personally revealed the damage such legislative changes would create. The greatest concern was losing their businesses entirely, either because retail space would be limited to chain stores only, which was compounded by the surfeit of alcohol availability at several nearby businesses. Many of these independent retailers are family owned businesses (some fourth generation) that would be threatened by this proposed change in alcohol licensing.

Hugh Sisson stated plainly, “Beware the law of unintended consequences. In states where alcohol is sold in grocery stores, that has been the case for decades. The systems (sales in grocery stores or not) work well in the markets they were established in. Let’s not fu©k this up!” I think we can all agree with that!

If this is so detrimental, why entertain this at all? The answer-overwhelming consumer interest, based upon polls conducted by the Reform on Tap Task Force for starters. Additionally, it must be discussed openly for all to understand the pros and cons of the proposed change.

Adam Benesch hit the nail on the head when addressing why 89% of respondents to the Reform on Tap poll favored alcohol sales in grocery stores, by inquiring if perhaps the question posed to the respondents of the poll should have been “would you want grocery sales with only 1/3 the selection?” An excellent point, and one that might prompt a completely different response from consumers. Perhaps another survey is in order?

Distributors and retailers alike also made the case that a lack of personal representation in stores would cause small breweries to suffer as they would not be explicitly promoted. Currently sales are secured by the local face to face between distributors and retailers and ultimately consumers. The impersonal nature of grocery and chain stores eradicates that interaction entirely. The support for the local breweries is most certainly appreciated but where was all of this support when HB1283 was created through backroom bargaining by the retailers and distributors? Better late than never? Or merely self-interest?

All of this comes back to building brand recognition of local breweries as the recipe for success (along of course with a quality product put to market). This was recognized by two of the guest speakers:
John Bodnovich, in wrapping his presentation declared, “We all do better when we all do better.” This is absolutely true, which is why there needs to be an increase taproom pint sales, to build the brand and allow the distributors and retailers to thrive alongside the breweries.
Jack Milani didn’t agree that the focus of the meetings should be placed on increasing retail alcohol licenses, or expanding taproom sales. He believed the concern should rest upon convincing Maryland consumers to spend more on Maryland products. Once again, the logical, common sense answer is to build the brand through taproom sales, which translates into retail sales, even at a higher price point. This is particularly true with increasing beer tourism from both within and external to the state.

Yes, it may be repetitive but the answer to the points made by both of these gentlemen resides in the undeniable fact that brand building begins in the taproom. Craft breweries first offer their wares to the public in the taproom. After the brewery tour/taproom experience consumers are more inclined to purchase that brand in liquor stores, in bars, and restaurants, promulgating growth for the retailers selling it, the distributors supplying it, and the breweries manufacturing it. Once again a win for every tier!
Although the crowd present was overwhelmingly in favor of preventing the sale of alcohol in grocery and chain stores (roughly 98%), some wanted to explore it further, questioning the anecdotal evidence presented in favor of hard facts, which seemed unavailable. Tom Flores chimed in, uttering a most critical sentiment that most of us share,

“Many assumptions have been made here and previously, particularly regarding the flat beer sales and the zero-sum game. Where is the support for this?”

We all know the problem with assumptions… it is time for evidence to support or refute them at this point. John Bodnovich parroted the ‘zero-sum’ game theory of beer sales without buttressing the statement with evidentiary backing. I, much like Flores, would like to see a compilation of data sourced from all three tiers (objectively) and presented as a basis from which to craft arguments and ultimately more substantial conversation toward legislation; whether it be increased taproom sales, economic development resulting from breweries, or grocery store sales impacting brewery and retail growth.
Beer for thought!

Brewers Come Alive

August 15, 2017
The most recent meeting of the Reform on Tap Task Force took place at Peabody Heights Brewery in Baltimore on Tuesday August 15. An air of expectation hung over the room after the last meeting. I am delighted to report it was not a disappointment. In fact it was rather productive. For perhaps the first time, the brewers bravely voiced their concerns, engaging in an honest dialogue about why these changes need to happen, and oh my how enlightening it was!
The meeting went straight down to the business of answering questions at the heart of the issues. Although a mere three (of the six) planned questions were addressed, the discourse was genuine.

The three questions tackled:
1) Should Maryland brewers have the same unlimited self-distribution privileges as those in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia?
2) Would the Maryland beer industry be affected if brewers had unlimited self-distribution privileges? If so how?
3) Should the business relationship between the producer and the distributor be governed by state franchise law or by a negotiated private contract between parties?

Although taken one at a time, much of the discussion overlapped. When the first question was posed, respondent Julie Veratti of Denizens opened. She very simply stated, “Yes!” It is what came after that was most instructive and finally got to the heart of many issues the breweries face. The arbitrary 3,000 bbl limit was at the core. Leslie Schaller of Bond Distributing took credit (with fellow distributors) for raising the self-distribution limit in 2013, stating she allowed the increase because craft brewers surveyed agreed to the number. A direct quote from Bond, “Distributors raised the self-distribution limit in 2013.” In reality, as pointed out by Len Fowell (our moderator) the legislature was responsible for raising the limit. This however demonstrates the hubris and the control the distributors have with the political actors in Annapolis.

It was after this exchange that a real discussion ensued. Much to the shock of most distributors at the table, a number of brewers spoke out. Make no mistake is was quite civilized (as it should be). The distributors took a cue from the professional demeanor of the brewers and toned down the intimidation and aggression. This was when we learned that breweries (both those that self-distribute, along with those that self-distribute in only certain locales – like Montgomery County) are already pushing up against that 3,000 bbl limit. We also learned the cost of that limit. For Justin Bonner of Jailbreak, they will have to slow the momentum of sales in Montgomery County and can no longer entertain hiring a third well-paid sales rep for the area. That clearly cuts into their business and Maryland’s economic growth (less jobs, less taxes, less revenue, etc.). For Veratti, the only way to grow (without a barrel increase) is to increase taproom sales- which is also limited by law. It is a no win situation for her business for future growth.

The other quite relevant aspect in all of the self-distribution discussion was brought by Hugh Sisson, an active participant in the meeting. He fully supported unlimited self-distribution but also noted that there comes a point when the economics don’t justify self-distribution for brewers. Each brewery has to decide what that point is, but distributors have no need to worry- as breweries grow they absolutely need the distributors. There is no negative impact on the middle tier according to Sisson, and most brewers agreed with this. Many breweries like Denizens, Attaboy, and Chesapeake want to continue self-distributing because they want to retain control of the product from start to finish with refrigeration a key argument. For most breweries however growth exceeds that ability, and they must forge a relationship with wholesalers to get their beer to market.

One key point brought up by Bonner was supported by Sisson and many brewers- there are a finite number of distributors in the state (as previously discussed). New distributors cannot open easily or at all because Maryland breweries are already under obligation to current distributors (due to current franchise law) unless they: a) haven’t opened yet, or b) self-distribute only. There is no realistic business model for new wholesalers in Maryland. Therefore, considering the craft brewery growth that has already occurred, how many breweries are too many for a distributor to represent? What is their saturation point? Eventually, a brand or brewery will not be a priority because the sales reps have too many craft breweries in the portfolio. That lack of quality representation by the overloaded distributor can destroy the brand. Add to that the 6 months it takes any Maryland brewery to extricate from a franchise agreement and the brewery is out of business.

This brought the dialogue to independent private contracts replacing franchise law. Private contracts would allow negotiation of all terms from refrigeration, to determining what and where a brewery will self-distribute, to how it is stored, and everything in between. The greatest argument against private contracts came from the distributors (not surprisingly). As noted, franchise laws were put in place as a way to protect distributors from macro-breweries. If a distributor’s business was 90% Budweiser for example, and they suddenly dropped that wholesaler it would go out of business. The franchise laws protect them from such a scenario, and that is important. However, we are not discussing macro-breweries in Maryland, we are talking about craft breweries. These rules are not applicable as craft makes up a small percentage of the overall wholesale portfolio. Protections can be negotiated into contracts for the distributor to allay their justified fears, but it has to be a level playing field. As it currently stands, if a distributor doesn’t perform well for a brewery (e.g. stops distribution in one metropolitan city) the brewery will be out of business. Macros can absorb the loss of a city, craft breweries cannot. 180 days to extricate from a wholesaler (franchise law) is far too long for craft. The breweries also need protections in place. When asked by Schaller (Bond) if any brewers had bad experiences disengaging from franchise agreements with distributors, several brewers finally spoke up. This was summarily dismissed by Schaller with the admonition, “Not to throw the baby out with the bathwater over one bad distributor…” Brewers like Carly Ogden of Attaboy did not let that stand without a quick retort, “How many bad experiences with distributors do you need? 90?”

Yes, despite some of these terse exchanges, this meeting represented a far better give-and-take of information and a more realistic representation of issues from both sides in an equitable manner. Once again distributors rallied against elimination of the 3-tier system, although as stated by Comptroller Franchot, no one has interest in eliminating it. The argument was used by distributors as an attempt to refocus talking points, perhaps to avoid some of the meatier discussions that ensued. Regardless, there was less redirection (and sleight of hand) and more accountability from many of the task force members that demanded answers to the questions posed. For the most part, they obliged. Sometimes they were, like Eric Best (of Bob Hall, LLC), quite candid and forthcoming.
Tom Flores made a significant point that the laws need to reflect the reality of the industry today, not five years ago, not 30 years ago. Flores is a vocal proponent of no longer protecting the ‘status quo’, scrapping the entire system and starting over based on the current industry. This could take years to accomplish. Delegate Washington, among other members of the legislature, were not only present to hear the discussion, they were vocal about their support for eradicating laws that suppress revenues and place certain businesses at a disadvantage in favor of others. Refreshing indeed!

The momentum is here now for change from the public, the participants, and the legislature. Businesses are suffering today from restricted growth due to arbitrary limits placed upon them by current law.

As Randy Mariner stated, “I thought Maryland was open for business.” Let us jettison these arbitrary limits and truly be ‘Open for Business’!

Results of Comptroller’s Survey on Brewery Law Changes

Peter Franchot
NEWS release
“Vast Majority of Marylanders Support Changes to Current Brewery Laws
Comptroller’s survey results overwhelmingly favor reform effort”
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (August 14, 2017)

An overwhelming majority of Marylanders support fundamental changes to the state’s alcohol laws that govern the production, distribution and sale of beer, according to the results of an online survey released today by Comptroller Peter Franchot.
“Maryland’s current beer laws are dysfunctional and outdated and work to the detriment of consumers and small business,” said Comptroller Franchot in response to the unscientific survey. “Without comprehensive reform, Maryland’s reputation within the national craft brewing industry will continue to suffer. We must have laws that make sense for all the stakeholders and promote economic growth for all three tiers and create the best market for Maryland consumers.”
This past spring, the Comptroller announced the formation of a Reform on Tap Task Force to do a comprehensive review of the state’s antiquated laws governing the manufacturing, distribution and sale of Maryland craft beer. Forty task force members, representing every region of the state from large and small breweries, distributors, restaurants, bars and retailers, consumers and local and state officials have been meeting regularly to discuss issues affecting the industry. As a result of the meetings, an online poll was taken live from August 7 to 11. During that time, 2,472 respondents completed the survey. Below are the questions and the results:

Question 1: What is your opinion on the limits on craft beer production in Maryland law?
 72 percent of respondents said there should be no limits on beer production; while an additional 20 percent said they are too low. The remaining 8 percent said they are either too high as they are or that they are “fine” at current levels.

Question 2: What is your opinion of the sales limits in Maryland law?
 79 percent of respondents said there should be no sales limits; while 14 percent said these limits are too low. The remaining 7 percent said either they are too high as is or they are “fine” at current levels.

Question 3: What is your opinion of this “buy-back” provision in [HB 1283]?
 89 percent of respondents expressed disapproval of the buy-back provision in House Bill 1283; while 4 percent said they approved and 6 percent said they had no opinion.

Question 4: Should the business relationship between the brewer and the distributor be governed by Maryland state franchise law, or should it be subject to a private contract that is negotiated and signed by both parties?
 83 percent of respondents said the relationship should be governed by a “negotiated, signed contract”; while 10 said it should be governed by state franchise law and 7 saying they had no opinion on the matter.

Question 5: What is your opinion on Maryland’s current self-distribution law?
 72 percent of respondents said there should be no such self-distribution limits, while 18 percent said the limits should be raised. Of those remaining, 7 percent said current law is reasonable, 1 percent said the limits should be lowered and 2 percent said self-distribution should be prohibited altogether in the state.
Question 6: What is your opinion on Maryland’s current “take home” sales limit on one case per customer?
 66 percent of respondents said there should be no take-home limit while 25 percent answered that the existing limit is too low and should be raised. Of those remaining, 8 percent said the existing limit is reasonable, 1 percent said take-home sales in the state should be prohibited altogether and lest than 1 percent said the existing limit is too high and should be lowered.

Breaking News

August 10, 2017
I must begin this announcement with a caveat. I am well known for providing my sources of information and independent verification of those sources for any material I provide. Today I must beg your indulgence and ask for your trust as I cannot disclose my sources for this important post. I will reveal that they are extremely well-placed within the Reform on Tap Task Force.

Privileged information has been divulged that Comptroller Franchot has decided to move forward with sweeping legislation transforming the way craft beer is made, distributed, and sold in the state of Maryland. Here is the proposed legislation (for the 2018 session):
1) Taproom and brewery hours will revert back to what they were prior to HB1283 (leaving it up to the county, city, or local municipality once again).
2) No barrel limits will be placed upon breweries or the taprooms they operate.
3) Franchise laws will cease to exist between breweries and distributors in the state of Maryland. Relationships between breweries and the distributors they choose to work with will be created and determined through individual/ independent contracts negotiated between the two parties.
4) There will be no barrel limit to self-distribution for Maryland breweries.
5) There will no longer be a distinction between brewery classes / licenses (since there are no barrel limits)

As the shock of this revelation wears off, be aware that there are still critical issues that MUST be addressed. First and foremost, since this proposal is all but inked, where does this leave the 3 Tier System? Exactly as it has stood for decades- unchanged. Franchot promised to keep the 3 tier system and he is honoring that promise. Second, as stated in my last Reform on Tap update (July 20) this is a WIN for EVERYONE. Craft brewers will manufacture more great beer (and gain more national recognition), equating to more work for distributors, and more sales for retailers (bottle shops and bars alike).

What about the remaining Task Force meetings? There will not be a vote on the issues addressed but they are still critical. Why? View it as an opportunity for those in the industry to make their case, and inform the public of why it is absolutely necessary to support these changes. Knowledge is power. Many in the legislature voted for HB1283 without knowledge of the damage it would leave in its wake. 2018 is also an election year and pressure must be brought to bear upon those that would vote against the aforementioned changes. The legislature serves at the pleasure of the people- not the other way around. We determine who should represent us in office. If they are not acting in our best interests (or in this case in the best interests of the manufacturing industry that is helping to build our communities, creating both jobs and revenue) they should no longer serve as our representatives. This is particularly true if they are more concerned with pleasing lobbyists for the distributors, and lining their campaign coffers, instead of acting for the will of the people they purport to represent.

It is also relevant that the breweries step up. The distributors have been extremely vocal, but they have not answered questions honestly, nor made a case for why legislation should remain as it stands today. With few exceptions the breweries have remained virtually silent through these Task Force meetings, and this has not gone unnoticed by the public at large. They must make their case. They must voice (for themselves) the need for these new laws, no matter the size of their brewery- or perhaps because of it. At times through this process it has been excruciatingly painful to watch myriad brewers sit silently while the distributors intimidate, obfuscate, and take full credit for the success of the industry (which is completely unmerited). It is understandable that the brewers are quiet- I get it. It is incredibly difficult to sit next to the entity responsible for getting your beer to market, and publically criticize them or suggest changes to the way that partnership is regulated, for fear of retaliation. Considering the way the distributors have behaved thus far- that may be warranted. No brewery wants to lose the business they have worked to build because they chose to defend themselves against an unfair tyrannical system in which they have (to date) held no power. BUT- if the breweries do not speak up this legislation may not make it through the 2018 session, and may lose momentum for future sessions.

“Tyranny is allowed to thrive when good people remain silent.”

The time has come for the brewers to unite in one voice, to speak out about the need for these changes. United there are no ‘little fishes’, but one large school, moving together and capable of weathering the currents distributors might create in backlash. There is also a way to do so without singling themselves out for retaliation- The Brewer’s Association of Maryland (BAM). They have an incredibly adept executive director in Kevin Atticks, who has navigated the mire of Annapolis politics quite adroitly in the past. He is literally paid to represent them, which includes acting as their voice in the legislative arena. Individual breweries are hogtied by the distributors but the BAM Executive Director isn’t. The brewers need a champion, and he is done warming up- it is time to let him lose in the stadium.

Historically it has been proven that appeasement does not work, as the aggressor will just keep taking more, never satisfied with what they have. The Task Force will present their findings, and openly reveal the already decided upon ‘blueprint’ I have mapped out for you today. However, the time will come in February, 2018 (when the Comptroller begins pushing this through the House and the Senate) that the concerns and support of the breweries MUST be vocalized (by the breweries or their appointed representative Mr. Atticks) or this bill may die.

Don’t look back 10 years from now with regret because you did not fight for your rights, change the laws, and secure the future of this beloved craft industry when you had the momentum and public support to do so.

Sláinte!

The Distributors Perspective #2

July 20, 2017
This month’s meeting took place at Jailbreak Brewing Company in Laurel, Maryland. The meeting opened with a change in format. A series of questions were posed, with opportunities for answers from brewers, retailers, legislators, and distributors. Due to time constraints only six of the questions were addressed, to no one’s satisfaction.

Warning, this update is a bit opinionated. First I am going to quote Liz Murphy who noted that this task force is setting a precedent for brewers, wholesalers, retailers, legislators all sit down in the same space to discuss the issues facing alcohol manufacturing and distribution in Maryland. That in and of itself is productive. This particular meeting was not productive at all. In point of fact, I must label this meeting ‘OBFUSCATION’.  With few exceptions the distributors made a point not to answer any of the questions posed. Instead, they offered other information, like how many people they employ, how wonderful they are to their craft brewery customers, how they  bear the responsibility for the success of craft breweries in the state, and even how they smoked weed in the 1960’s. I kid you not. The only thing missing was the cheerleaders.

Important questions were posed with regard to the length of time it takes to end a relationship with a brewery and a distributor- why 180 days? Is there any detriment to shortening it to 90 days, and if so where is that evidence? Why do we need franchise laws in the first place? Why not have specific individual detailed contracts instead? Most of the franchise laws cater to large breweries, not small breweries, therefore what can be adjusted in Maryland to mitigate the impact of a ‘bad decision’ (like a new brewery signing with the wrong wholesaler)? These questions were met with the same information provided last month by the distributors- talking points printed out in binders. Most of time they talked about unrelated things or intentionally clouded their responses with vague qualifications, and obfuscations centering around unrelated regulations,  or distributor costs that had little or nothing at all to do with the questions being posed.

To add insult to injury, Lestor Jones (NBWA economist) was once again present with smoke and mirrors. He inaccurately quoted statistics (yet again) from the Brewer’s Association of America- touting Maryland craft breweries as ‘ growing at a fine pace’, when we are literally (stagnant) in the bottom third in the country. He ignored other incredibly relevant information as well. When asked if there was supporting evidence from distributors that reducing the number of days (to terminate a contract) to 90 from 180 was detrimental to distributors in neighboring states, Jones responded that it wasn’t relevant because they were neighboring states with different franchise rules. In other words Maryland stands alone- is incomparable and just terrific, and everyone should stop complaining and leave things as they are. Ignore the man behind the curtain…..

Some distributors clearly did not understand simple economics. one gentleman complained that if breweries increased taproom sales, it would harm distributors. Well, the Brewer’s Association just released a report that breweries without taprooms saw an increased growth in 2016 of 18.8%; where as breweries with taprooms saw 33.7% growth. That growth was outside of the brewery (in addition to taproom sales), which means those additional barrel sales went through a distributor. Thus, taproom sales create MORE business/profit for the distributor! This is all common sense economics. As the distributors keep shouting, “We are all in it together in this 3-tier system,” perhaps they need a lesson in economics (NOT from Mr. Jones). Might I suggest they begin to think about the brewery side of things, as it can produce benefits to every tier if and when all relevant facts are taken into consideration.

Carly Ogden of Attaboy said it best, “Why do we continue to hold onto laws from 1974? This is not 1974, and the market, the breweries, and the consumers have completely changed. It is time for the laws to reflect that. It is time for breweries to be considered. Laws should not protect one entity to the detriment of another.”

The problem here is that distributors don’t want the real conversation with the breweries, and they want to continue to put a massive wall against any change they do not abide, understand, or might threaten the protections they currently have in place. There were several times where the distributors behaved and responded as if breweries need the distributor’s approval to even suggest changes to the law, as if they held all of the power. This pervasive attitude goes to the heart of the issue. They do have all of the power, and are completely unwilling to cede any of it. That brings me to the next point. Brewers are not going to sit down next to their distributors and complain about them, at least not in an open forum- for fear of the damage it may cause to their brand/business. That is known as self-preservation.

There was a bright moment however. The legislators present were very interested in changing the current law. They were equally concerned about the backroom, dirty dealing that occurred in the House which pushed HB1283 into law, all to lure and ultimately please Guinness (Diageo) and distributors regardless of consequence. Quite frankly those senators provided a refreshing candor to the dialogue, fully supporting the breweries- a welcome change. Perhaps a closed door meeting between brewers and legislators could provide a venue for transparency and honesty with regard to what really happens on the manufacturing side of things, belying the myopic assertions of the distributors (that are all inherently wonderful.) Something has to give, or nothing will change and Maryland craft breweries will continue to be ignored in deference to the distributors.

Ignore the man behind the curtain to your own detriment.

The Distributors Perspective

June 22, 2017
Three Maryland distributors from across the spectrum addressed the Task Force today. They each were from differing parts of Maryland.
A) Betty Buck of Buck Distributing started things off. Buck has been operating for 71 years. She detailed the perspective of wanting to do right by craft brewers. She discussed the times Buck worked with craft brewers in a way no other distributors standardly would, noting they are all in it together. She is dedicated to the promotion of Maryland’s craft brewing industry. Buck also noted her company’s philanthropy in the community.
“When you get your living from the community, you must give something back.”
B) Dick Carey of Carey distribution discussed the need for franchise protection with brewers. He mentioned how critical it was for bankers to loan money based on franchise contracts for wholesalers. Most notably he said that Maryland breweries have it far better for sales/profit opportunity than those in Virginia. Why?
1) Excise taxes per case: .65 cents per case in Virginia, .20.5 cents per case in Maryland.
2) Maryland has mostly independent liquor stores. Virginia can only sell in chain stores. There is no local input in Virginia, therefore much more difficult to make it onto the shelves.
He noted that Maryland distributors are local and are trusted by independent retailers- building trust and aiding in placement of product which benefits the breweries.
C) Matt Lesky of BP Lesky Distribution focused on the relationships with brewers to sell the brand. They work with retailers to get product to market including developing his sales staff (many are certified Cicerones) to market the product. He also works with the Comptroller’s office with issues of safety, and ethics.

D) The next speaker was Lester Jones, Chief Economist of The National Beer Wholesalers Association. He discussed the predictability of alcohol consumption since 1939, and attempted to dispel ‘myths’ of the industry. He stated that Maryland was declining in alcohol consumption. He noted the vast number of millennials not having kids and purchasing alcohol. He mentioned a Neilson study that 50% of beer drinkers buy local, and that is a driving factor to purchase. He stated that there was a decline in consumption at bars and taverns in Maryland in favor of festivals, etc. He noted a $4.3 million economic impact from Maryland breweries on the economy. He said this was not economic development.

Jones struggled to see the development of the communities where breweries are located (from job creation to rejuvenation of the neighborhoods). This was apparently not factored into his calculations. He also pushed against a free market economy for craft beer as disastrous yet ignored the distributors that are 50% owned by Big Beer (Miller, AB-Inbev). He was challenged by many stakeholders in attendance (both distributors and brewers). Counterfeit products was the only argument presented to support aversion to a free market economy for breweries.

It was noted by many that only “Good Distributors” were present. HB 1283 was set up for distributors and there are many bad distributors out there. So how do they get out of the franchise agreement, etc. and deal with bad distributors?
Maryland requires 180 period after termination notice to end an agreement between a brewer and a wholesaler. Virginia 90 Days, Delaware 60 Days and Pennsylvania 90 Days. Must demonstrate good cause to end relationship with wholesaler. Wineries do not have franchise agreements in Maryland.

Leslie of Bond Distribution also weighed in with her opinion on the difficulty with tap space (retailers always want something new), and franchise agreements. She stated that each brewery is important and she has been financially harmed b/c of loss of franchise contracts when craft breweries are bought by AB-InBev, etc.
Laws that protect the bad distributors… what shall we do? Punish the entire industry?

“Free market should dictate the distribution and supply,” according to David Marquis of Chesapeake Brewing.

“The cost of an $80,000 truck for distribution does not equate to cost of brewing equipment. Something needs to give to make it more equitable. The exit from franchise agreements needs to be easier for both parties.” (Carly,Attaboy)

Tom Flores said we must address pay to play- as it does take place! As far as franchise law, he is bothered that a 1967 snapshot is the basis of our current franchise law. Society has changed and the wholesaler relationship needs to be updated to represent what is happening now. Flores wants to scrap everything and start over to make it equitable for all parties (tiers) involved.

No one present could answer why it requires 6 months to exit from the Franchise agreement (definitively). Bond offered one answer-the code dated beer is 6 months. That would offer time to get rid of stock and sell out what remained with a retailer.

The next meeting at Jailbreak on July 20 will address not only the retail end of the system, but also the unanswered distribution issues:
1) Why franchise dissolution is so long for breweries in Maryland.
2) Why breweries and not wineries for the agreements.
3) Taproom buyback.
I hope we make some headway!
Cheers!

June 7, 2017

Reform on Tap Task Force meeting today heavily focused on Contract Brewing and Tap Room Sales in relation to wholesale/retail business.
The difficulty with HB 1283 for contract brewers:
1) If you contract brew for a class 5 brewery, you cannot sell their beer on premises in your taproom.
2) Total sales of contract brewed beer cannot be greater that 25 % of total beer sold in taproom.
The positive note on 1283 is that it defined and legalized contract brewing in Maryland. It was murky and not legally recognized before this, although allowed.
With regard to Tap Room Sales Justin Dvorkin and Ace Mortiz summed it up beautifully as a symbiotic relationship between breweries, restaurants, and retailers. The breweries send patrons to the retailers and restaurants, and everyone relies upon one another to increase sales. For Ace- he sends the 21-45 yr old demographic to neighboring restaurants and retailers once they visited the taproom. Dvorkin commented as both brewery owner and restaurateur that the brewery serves a unique place in the community- fomenting the growth of the neighborhood while generating more business for local restaurants and package stores looking for Maryland Craft Beer. Breweries want to see retailers and distributors succeed not compete with them! Dvorkin noted that in no way has locating a restaurant near Union Craft Brewery hindered sales- in fact it has accomplished quite the opposite. Patrick Brady of Fin City and Hoopers noted the same phenomenon- an increase in restaurant and retail business.
Most breweries also noted they charge higher prices than nearby retailers to purposefully NOT cut into their sales: truly symbiotic! Thus the argument of brewery sales taking away from wholesale and retail sales was abjectly false.
Kevin Atticks noted that 5 Maryland breweries (3 in planning and 2 established breweries) were lucratively courted by Virginia once HB 1283 was passed. Offers of grant money and flexibility for hours and tap room sales, et al were extremely attractive.
HB 1283 is clearly hurting business far more than helping bars or wholesalers that demanded its inception.
Tom Flores of Monocacy/Brewers Alley asked the most pertinent question:
“Does anyone actually believe HB 1283 will increase beer sales/consumption/production in Maryland? No one raised their hand.” Very telling…
Dick O’Keefe (owner of Peabody Heights) provided the most passionate and heartfelt statement:
“We were not asking for anything from the Maryland legislature- they just need to stop getting in our way! Stop tying our hands!”
Amen!

May 24, 2017

Reform on Tap Taskforce Inaugural meeting
Here are the highlights for those that missed out:
Comptroller Franchot stated it was NOT the intention of the Task Force to end the three tier system but to work on making changes that would benefit all tiers. Presentations were made by several members:
*Jeff Kelly (Field Enforcement Director) presented on the history of Maryland’s alcohol licensing and three tier system. Kelley articulated the current issues facing alcohol manufacturers with regards to licenses, franchise laws, contract brewing, and self -distribution.
*Pete Johnson of the Brewer’s Association of America compared Maryland’s antiquated and labyrinthine regulations to other states pointing out exactly where Maryland was deficient. He offered examples of more efficient regulation beneficial to all tiers in the state and encouraged investigation by the task force to consider some of those options.
*Dr. Kevin Atticks discussed the seventy one active breweries in Maryland, and the growth and subsequent economic impact of breweries on the state. He also detailed how important ‘local’ is to Maryland. Through Grow and Fortify and Brewer’s Association of Maryland he is fomenting this agricultural growth. Currently Maryland has three malt houses with 4 in planning, new malting grain crops, and hop fields. He noted that breweries in Maryland are eager to build in older neighborhoods (in a state of rejuvenation). This brings jobs, feeds the local economies, and consequently improves towns.
*Allison Burr-Livingstone of Visit Baltimore discussed how culinary tourism is being promoted in Baltimore. She is targeting the local breweries, wineries, and distilleries through major travel and food magazines. Livingstone addressed the multifaceted approach to luring more tourists for Maryland’s alcohol and culinary industries noting a AAA survey that over 22 million Americans will take a ‘culinary’ vacation within the next two months and they are working to make sure that destination is Baltimore, and Maryland.
*Salisbury Mayor Jake Day discussed the immense economic growth in Salisbury due to ‘listening’. Day listened to what the consumers were asking for: local manufacturing of local ingredients into local goods like craft beer, wine, and foods (cupcakeries seemed very important here). He also sounded the alarm bell (much like Atticks and Johnson) that neighboring states with friendlier regulations are stealing away our talented brewers (and other manufacturers) to competing locales like Virginia and Pennsylvania that are less cumbersome in opening an alcohol manufacturing business.
The host of senators, brewery owners, media, and industry experts are taking this seriously- which is completely necessary and craft beer drinkers of Maryland should rejoice. However, there is a long way to go and a few warning shots were fired upon departure:
To improve the laws (and get anything through this mercurial Maryland legislature), we all must agree upon the changes in unanimity to Maryland’s alcoholic beverage laws (manufacturers, distributors, retailers, et al) otherwise we do not stand a chance.
All documents from today’s meeting will be posted to the Reform on Tap FB page Thursday 5/25/17.
Cheers!