Connecticut House Bill HB05110

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/20
• Refer: 2/13/20

Caption

An Act Concerning The Alcoholic Beverages Tax Exemption For Certain Barrels Of Beer.

Impact

The proposed changes to the alcoholic beverages tax exemption have the potential to positively impact the local economy by encouraging the growth of craft breweries. By allowing a higher number of barrels to be tax-exempt each month, the bill fosters a supportive environment for small business owners in the brewing industry. This could lead to increased employment opportunities, new business opportunities, and a boost in local production. As breweries expand their capabilities, consumers might benefit from a wider variety of locally produced beers.

Summary

House Bill 05110 aims to amend the existing alcoholic beverages tax by increasing the monthly exemption limit for barrels of beer from fifteen to fifteen per month. This change is designed to benefit local breweries and small businesses by reducing the tax burden associated with the production and sale of beer. The intent behind this legislation is to promote the brewing industry within the state, making it more competitive and financially viable, especially for smaller producers who may struggle under the current taxation structure.

Contention

While supporters of the bill argue that the changes will help stimulate the local economy and support small businesses, there may be concerns from traditional retailers and other stakeholders who fear a loss of revenue from the alcoholic beverages tax. Critics may argue that the increased exemption favors small breweries over larger corporations and could lead to imbalance in the market. The debate around the bill may center on the balance between supporting local entrepreneurship and ensuring fair competition within the broader alcoholic beverage market, as well as the long-term implications on state tax revenue.