Missouri House Bill HB681

Missouri 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 5/15/25

Caption

Designates J. Rieger & Co. the official Kansas City whiskey of Missouri

Impact

By adding this new section to Chapter 10 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, HB681 seeks to not only bolster local pride but also potentially enhance tourism and economic development in Kansas City. The bill's approval could lead to increased sales and recognition for J. Rieger & Co., encouraging other local businesses and distilleries to engage with the state's regulatory framework more actively. The act serves as a form of state endorsement, which could improve brand loyalty and consumer interest in local products.

Summary

House Bill 681 designates J. Rieger & Co. as the official Kansas City whiskey for the state of Missouri. This designation honors the historical significance of J. Rieger & Co., which was recognized as the largest mail-order whiskey house in the United States prior to Prohibition. The revival of J. Rieger & Co. in 2015 marks an important moment for Kansas City's distilling sector, as it is the first whiskey distilled in the area since Prohibition. This act aims to promote local heritage and acknowledges the brand's contributions to the region's economy and culture.

Contention

Although the bill appears to garner general support, potential contention could arise concerning the implications of endorsing a single brand as the 'official' whiskey. Critics may argue that such a designation could limit the visibility and competitiveness of other local distilleries. There may be discussions surrounding the fairness of this sponsorship and whether it could unintentionally stifle the growth of the broader Kansas City distilling scene, which includes many emerging brands striving for recognition.