State regulator seeks to change craft brewery rules

One Maryland politician, says the state needs to update the laws that govern craft breweries. 

"The problem is the legislature passed a bill last year infamously known as House Bill 1283 which basically put a you're not welcome -do not come here sign neon sign up on the borders."

Peter Franchot says  the current guidelines are draconian compared to neighboring states like Virginia and Delaware. 

According to the comptroller, the laws are running businesses away and into the arms of other states with more relaxed rules. 

"For most craft breweries these changes would be all the things that we kind of fight every year."

Many breweries on Delmarva say if the state legislature approves of the new regulations it could increase their bottom line."

Under Franchot's proposal, the cap on how much beer breweries can sell would be lifted. 

The operating hours for brew houses would also be determined at the local level, not by the state. 

Local business owners like Jason Hearn of Tall Tales Brewery in Parsonsburg say its good to have someone in office who truly understands what's at stake.

"Across the board, with all of the classes this legislation basically improves the revenues for all the breweries."

These small craft beer makers are making a big impact on the state's economy to the tune of $826 million dollars each year according to Franchot.

"I've developed a lot of loyalty to them because they represent the future of manufacturing in Maryland and we have about 80 independent breweries."