Miami- State Representative Frank Artiles (R-Miami) was one of the co-sponsors of last year’s ill-fated growler bill that would have legalized the sale of 64oz. growlers in the state of Florida. Artiles is concerned that regulations on growlers are hurting small business in the booming Florida craft beer industry.
64oz. growlers are the standard growler size in the craft beer industry and are legal in virtually every other state. Florida is only one of three states, along with Mississippi and Utah, that bans the sale of specific sizes of beer containers.
According to WFSU, who reported on the emerging bill:
Artiles’s bill would also loosen restrictions on beer tastings. Currently most retailers are able to hold only wine tastings. The bill has not yet been assigned to a committee.
Earlier this year, Representative Debbie Mayfield, whose committee did not give the 2012 growler bill a hearing signaled that she may be open to hearing more about 64oz growlers. When confronted on twitter, Mayfield tweeted on 27 August:”after looking at the process I wanted something better and to do it right.”
Looks like the growler debate is going to heat up again soon. Prepare those letters and phone calls to state senators and representatives.
via WFSU