Connecticut House Bill HB06632

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/15
• Refer: 1/28/15

Caption

An Act Implementing An Electronic Alcoholic Liquor Brand Label Registration System.

Impact

If enacted, HB 6632 would allow the Department of Consumer Protection to generate unique system-assigned numbers that will replace the previously used UNIMERC codes. This improvement is expected to facilitate easier submission and tracking of brand labels, potentially increasing operational efficiencies for both the liquor brands and regulatory agencies. The bill targets existing statutes within Title 30 of the general statutes, which governs alcohol production and sales in the state, thereby aligning state regulations with modern technological standards.

Summary

House Bill 6632 proposes the implementation of an electronic registration system for brand label registration of alcoholic liquors. This bill aims to modernize the existing registration process, which currently relies on the UNIMERC code, a system that may not adequately support the industry's evolving needs. By requiring the Department of Consumer Protection to create a more user-friendly electronic platform, this legislation seeks to streamline compliance for brands entering the market while enhancing oversight by regulatory authorities.

Contention

While the bill presents clear advantages in terms of efficiency, there might be concerns regarding data security and accessibility of the new electronic system. Stakeholders from the alcohol industry may have differing views on the transition from a long-established system to a new electronic one. Questions may arise about the costs associated with the implementation of this system and ensuring it accommodates brands of all sizes, particularly smaller producers that may find compliance burdensome.