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SB 1816

Alcoholic Beverages - As introduced, adds the bottling of distilled spirits to the definition of "manufacture" for purposes of licensing and regulation of the manufacturing of alcoholic beverages. - Amends TCA Title 57, Chapter 3.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

SB 1816 requires distilled spirits bottling facilities to obtain manufacturing licenses and comply with state regulations by expanding the definition of beverage "manufacture" in Tennessee law.

Pub. Ch. 833
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Bill Summary · SB 1816

Legislative bill overview

SB 1816 expands Tennessee's definition of "manufacture" in alcoholic beverage regulations to explicitly include the bottling of distilled spirits. This clarification means that facilities bottling distilled spirits must now obtain proper manufacturing licenses and comply with state regulations, closing a potential regulatory gap in the state's spirits industry oversight.

Why is this important

This change affects how distilled spirits producers, craft distilleries, and bottling operations are regulated and licensed in Tennessee. It ensures consistent regulatory oversight across the spirits industry and may impact licensing costs and compliance requirements for these businesses, while potentially increasing state regulatory clarity and tax collection.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry compliance costs: Existing bottling operations may face new licensing fees and regulatory compliance expenses if previously operating under different classifications
  • Competitive impact: The change could affect smaller craft distilleries or bottling operations differently than larger established producers depending on existing licensing status
  • Regulatory gap interpretation: Stakeholders may debate whether this addresses an actual enforcement problem or creates new bureaucratic requirements for already-compliant operations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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