MADISON, Wis. -- The Wisconsin State Legislature moved forward yesterday with legislation giving small businesses more options on how to market their products. Both the State Senate and Assembly passed SB 63 and AB 122, legislation that will make it possible for retailers to provide customers with a maximum of two 3-oz. samples of beer, as is currently allowed with wine.
The law would apply to Class A fermented malt beverage licensees such as grocery stores and convenience stores, as well as Class A liquor (and wine) licensees such as liquor stores or [image-nocss] grocery stores with full liquor sales sections, all between the hours of 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., according to the text of the bill.
I'm very pleased that my colleagues in the Legislature have given this measure their support, said the bill's author, State Senator Pat Kreitlow (D). Brewers will have more opportunities to market their products and consumers will also benefit with more choices from being able to sample different flavors before they buy. This will lead to increased sales and that will mean more jobs here in Wisconsin.
This legislation has bi-partisan, statewide support, with State Representative Scott Newcomer (R) as the author of the Assembly companion bill. Governor Jim Doyle is expected sign the bill soon, Kreitlow said in a press statement.
We have a strong history in Wisconsin of breweries from every corner of the state providing unique, high-quality beverages to adult consumers, he added. Our action today will give these businesses another tool in continuing that rich tradition.
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