ATLANTA (March 13, 2015) | Sen. Hunter Hill (R – Atlanta) led the passage of two bills that support the growth of small business and commemorate Georgia’s role in World War I, respectively, on Day 30 of the 2015 legislative session of the Georgia General Assembly. Senate Bill 63, also known as the “Beer Jobs” bill, passed out of the Senate by a vote of 51 to 5. Senate Bill 203, which creates the Georgia World War I Centennial Commission, was approved by a vote of 53 to 0.
Senate Bill 63 expands limited exceptions to the state’s current three-tier distribution system for alcohol. The legislation allows patrons to consume up to 36 ounces of beer per visitor on-site at licensed brewpubs, as well as take home up to 64 ounces of beer in a single container such as a growler. The beverage must be included in the price of a tour of the brewery and taken home as a sample or souvenir. The legislation also includes regulations for how the single container or growler must be transported once the individual leaves the brewpub.
“Senate Bill 63 is a bill that will create jobs and allow small businesses to grow and become more competitive. Beer tourism is thriving in surrounding states, and this bill will allow us to bring some of that activity to Georgia. I am hopeful that our counterparts in the House will give Senate Bill 63 favorable consideration,” said Sen. Hill.
Senate Bill 203 creates the Georgia World War I Centennial Commission. The Commission will consist of six members responsible for the planning, development, and execution of activities to commemorate the centennial anniversary of World War I. The Commission will also be accountable for collecting and distributing information about other World War I centennial events in Georgia. The Commission will be abolished either 30 days after the completion of activities or on July 28, 2019—whichever date is earlier.
“The goal of Senate Bill 203 is to ensure that Georgia commemorates the 100 year anniversary of World War I in the most honorable way possible. It is important that we recognize those who fought and sacrificed their lives for our nation, as well as the role Georgia military units played in individual battles and in ending the war,” said Sen. Hill.
Both bills will now transfer to the House of Representatives for consideration.
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For Immediate Release:
March 13, 2015
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
Jennifer.yarber@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028