Texas House Bill HB2072

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the authority of certain holders of a wine and beer retailer's permit to manufacture and sell wine and engage in certain related activities.

Impact

By amending Chapter 25 of the Alcoholic Beverage Code, HB2072 expands the activities that permit holders can engage in, potentially leading to greater entrepreneurship and job creation within the wine industry. It allows designated permit holders to ship and sell wine, provided the wine is produced from grapes grown in Texas and bottled by the permit holder. This aims to enhance the fiscal contributions of the wine industry through increased excise and sales tax revenue.

Summary

House Bill 2072 seeks to allow certain holders of a wine and beer retailer's permit to manufacture and sell wine in Texas. The bill recognizes the importance of the Texas wine industry within the three-tier system of alcoholic beverage regulation. It aims to promote a competitive market and foster growth within the local economy, particularly in the wine sector, while maintaining compliance with the legal framework established by the United States Constitution and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB2072 may include debates on the balance between regulation and industry freedom. Supporters of the bill may argue that it provides necessary flexibility for permit holders, enabling them to compete more effectively while generating local economic benefits. Conversely, critics might raise concerns regarding the potential for undermining the traditional regulatory structure that governs the alcohol industry or the implications of expanding the manufacturing capabilities of retail permit holders.