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Committee releases bill to create Jersey Craft Beverage Retailer Promotion and Grant Program
Summary
The committee amended and released SB3970 to direct the New Jersey Economic Development Authority to create a grant program promoting craft alcoholic beverages made in New Jersey and sold by local retailers; industry groups said the program could provide $200,000–$300,000 annually to retailers.
Senate Bill 3970, as amended, was released by the Senate Economic Growth Committee on Oct. 12. The bill would establish the Jersey Craft Beverage Retailer Promotion and Grant Program in the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) and direct EDA, together with the Division of Travel and Tourism, to develop and run a grant program to promote sale of New Jersey‑made craft alcoholic beverages at in‑state retailers.
Amendments described by committee staff replaced references to “alcoholic beverages” with “alcohol beverages” and made technical and clarifying changes to the bill’s language. The committee record lists industry supporters, including the New Jersey Restaurant and Hospitality Association, the New Jersey Liquor Store Alliance and the Brewers Guild of New Jersey.
Eric Orlando, testifying on behalf of the Brewers Guild of New Jersey, said the program would use a portion of industry‑generated tax dollars to help retailers stock and promote New Jersey‑made beers, spirits and other craft products. Orlando estimated that, on an annualized basis under the bill as introduced, the account created could make $200,000–$300,000 available overall to retailers and assist between 100 and 200 retailers each year; he said the account would grow if more New Jersey products are produced and taxed.
After brief committee discussion the measure was moved, seconded and released by roll call. Senators Corrado, Timberlake, Vice Chair Turner and Chair Cruz Perez each recorded “yes” votes and the bill as amended was released to the floor.
The bill as amended assigns program development to EDA and coordination with the Division of Travel and Tourism; any appropriation or ongoing account funding would be determined through the bill’s implementation and accounting provisions.
