New legislation could be "huge for the craft brewing industry," says NC legislator

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) – A bill introduced at the North American General Assembly could boost breweries across the state.

Proponents believe that the Arts and Crafts Distribution and Modernization Act amends existing law to promote the growth of independent small and medium-sized breweries.

"It's huge for the craft brewing industry," said Rep. Chuck McGrady, of Henderson County, who is one of the sponsors of the bill.

McGrady said it's a compromise between the beer industry and distributors that will benefit most breweries.

"Over 90%, maybe a little over 100% of the craft brewers, that will allow them to grow," McGrady said.

He expects the bill to have a hearing in the House in two weeks.

This would increase the production limit from 25,000 to 50,000 barrels. This would allow more beer manufacturers to distribute their products instead of paying a distributor.

The Highland Brewing Co. has been brewing beer in Asheville for almost 25 years. Last year, the company produced 45,000 barrels of beer.

Highland President and CEO Leah Wong Ashburn is cautiously optimistic.

"Well, it's early, this law is an iterative process, and many things that could still change," she said. "The industry is evolving so quickly and consumers are evolving too, so I think the entities that are participating in it need to evolve as well."

The bill will have less impact on small businesses like Asheville Brewing Co., but chief brewer Pete Langheinrich still sees it as a win-win.

"It seems that it would help small independent breweries, and we are always ready to play this game. We are still supporting this movement," said Langheinrich. "Any form of legislation that tilts the balance of independent breweries is a good thing, so we support that idea."

Local craft beer producers consider the legislation as a step forward made possible by keeping the lines of communication open.

"It's usually positive," said Wong Ashburn. "Brewers and wholesalers have a longstanding relationship, it's very deep and we should always talk to each other, so it's a good thing."