New Jersey Senate Bill S3802

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/11/23
• Refer: 5/11/23

Caption

Allows production of certain religious wine and sale on premises of religious institutions.

Impact

If enacted, S3802 will amend existing New Jersey alcoholic beverage laws to include provisions for this new license. The bill aims to accommodate the needs of religious organizations that produce wine for religious purposes and ceremonies, thereby promoting local production while also potentially opening avenues for revenue generation for these institutions. The bill proposes a nominal fee of $250 for acquiring the license needed to produce and sell these religious wines.

Summary

Senate Bill S3802 seeks to establish a limited religious wine license that permits the manufacturing and sale of certain wines by religious institutions. The bill specifically allows for the production of up to 5,000 gallons of wine, which must be certified as kosher, Kosher for Passover, or prepared as sacramental wine. This wine can be sold for consumption on the premises of these institutions or off the premises, provided that it adheres to specified regulations.

Contention

While supporters of S3802 argue that it is a necessary measure for supporting religious practices and local economies, concerns have been raised regarding the regulation of the sale of alcohol by non-profit organizations. Critics may worry about the implications this may have on the presence of alcohol in community settings and the potential for misuse among vulnerable populations. Additionally, given the specialized nature of the wine produced, questions of quality control and enforcement of the kosher standards may also arise.