Flying Dog – Maryland Beer Legislation Update

Sunday night, we brought Maryland House Bill 4 to your attention. If passed, this bill will allow manufacturing breweries in Maryland, Flying Dog included, to sell beer by the glass at their onsite taprooms.

House Bill 4 (HB 4) was scheduled for a closed-door vote in the Economic Matters Committee this past Monday, but was delayed because of the overwhelming response from supporters, along with the submission of last-minute amendments.

As a result, the lead sponsor of the bill, Del. Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio of the Eastern Shore, has been working tirelessly in the name of Maryland craft beer. She deserves our thanks and admiration. 

Many craft breweries around the country are already able to sell beer by the glass. The passing of HB 4 would enable manufacturing breweries to grow their taproom experience, entertain more impromptu visits, increase tourism, and grow business across the state.

According to the Brewers Association of Maryland, as more people are able to visit craft breweries, sales of craft beer increase not only in those breweries, but also in other small businesses like local restaurants, pubs, and beer stores in the surrounding community.

If passed, HB 4 will be signed by Governor Martin O’Malley and go into effect July 1, 2013.