One item lost in the shuffle following the Authentic Beverage v. TABC ruling is a telling statement from Senator John Carona, Chairman of the Senate Business and Commerce Committee, which hears alcohol-related bills.
“A Federal Court has ruled that Texas’ laws regarding the advertising and labeling of beer are flawed. In the case of Authentic Beverages Co. vs. TABC, the Judge awarded a summary judgment that certain laws directing the labeling and advertisement of beer are unconstitutional. While the three-tier system of manufacturer, distributor, and retailer has served Texas well since the end of Prohibition, it is an open question how well the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code reflects today’s reality of Internet sales and the growth of the craft brewing industry. The Court’s ruling suggests this is a topic that may be taken up by the 83rd Legislature.”
Credit Lee Nichols’ I Love Beer Blog for the quote.
Senator Carona’s quote demonstrates that our legislators have becoming increasingly aware of the changing marketplace, and recognize that an 80 year old code may not be the best to regulate it. 2013 is looking better and better for Craft Beer to finally have a fair hearing for statutory reform.
Drink Beer, Save Texas!
