Craft brewers in Michigan would face fewer restrictions under a proposal in Lansing.
As The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Jake Neher reports, a state House panel is set to take up legislation Tuesdays that would double the number of barrels a microbrewery can produce.
If there’s one thing that can bring state House Republicans and Democrats together, it’s a batch of Michigan craft beer. The bi-partisan legislation would also allow larger brewers such as Bell’s and Founders to open second locations in the state.
Democratic state Representative Andy Schor says the economic impact of Michigan’s craft brewers should not be underestimated. And he says the legislation would only enhance that impact.
“It’s allowing more flexibility,” he says. “It’s allowing microbrews to expand a little bit and create jobs and boost the economic development of our communities.”
Beer and wine distributors in Michigan have long been opposed to easing restrictions on craft brewers. But after months of negotiations, they have decided to support this legislation.