New Year for Beer

I could write a book on what is wrong with TABC regulation.  But I’ll start with 2 things I would love to see changed in 2011.

Breweries should be able to sell packaged product to end consumer

The laws that govern breweries are outdated and go against the free market principles that the conservative majority of this state claim to be proponents of while limiting the consumer in a way that is not beneficial to anybody.

The brewery and the beer drinking public are obviously limited by current regulations.

 You might make the argument that wholesalers would be affected and lose profits.  I disagree and believe that it would lead to more sales for the wholesaler.

  The wholesalers would miss out on some sales, but the convenience of going to the store close to your house as opposed to trekking out to the brewery will trump.  Most Brewery beer sales would come from individuals attending in house brewery events (tastings) whom tasted something they enjoyed and wanted to enjoy more at home.  These same fans would then be inclined to purchase more of said beer.  Once again the convenience of picking up beer on your grocery trip is more appealing than trekking to the brewery every time. 

  Wineries can do it.  Both are fermented, both alcoholic, both in bottles and Wine is more potent (on average). 

Stores should be able to sell alcohol before noon on Sunday

In Texas, before noon on Sundays you can’t purchase a 6 pack at a local grocer.   You can go to your local bar and grill(next door)  order a side of fries and proceed to drink a 6 pack before you drive home(I’m not suggesting that you ever drive intoxicated, only showing the absurdity of the law). 

What difference does it make that it is Sunday?  What does the day of the week have to do with responsibly consuming alcohol?  How much business does a grocer lose on Super Bowl Sunday because of this? 

What can we do?

It just so happens this is a Legislative Session year in Texas(starts 1/1/11).  That is special because they meet every 2 years. 

Start By finding out who represents you . 

And then take the time to call or email them.  Let them know that you love craft beer, the laws are outdated, you have a voters registration card and you aren’t afraid to use it. 

I will keep you posted with all the relevant news as it posts. 

Share it with your friends!