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H 276

BEER – Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding brewers’ licenses.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill 276 requires out-of-state small brewers to have a physical presence in Idaho, ensuring equal regulations for all brewers and enhancing market fairness.

Reported Signed by Governor on March 19, 2025 Session Law Chapter 112 Effective: 03/19/2025
#government #licensesandpermits #liquor #occupationalandprofessionallicenses
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Bill Summary · H 276

Summary of House Bill 276 (H 276)

Title

BEER – Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding brewers’ licenses.

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: H 276
  • Status: Reported Signed by Governor on March 19, 2025
  • Effective Date: March 19, 2025
  • Introduced: February 19, 2025
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject Areas: Government, Licenses and Permits, Liquor, Occupational and Professional Licenses

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 276 aims to amend existing Idaho laws concerning brewers' licenses to ensure that out-of-state small brewers are subject to the same regulations as in-state brewers. The intent is to maintain a level playing field in the brewing industry, ensuring that all brewers adhere to the same standards for health, safety, and market order.

Key Provisions

  1. Equal Standards for Brewers:

    • Out-of-state small brewers must have a physical presence in Idaho to operate, ensuring they are held to the same standards as local brewers.
    • This requirement is designed to enhance accountability and facilitate regulatory oversight.

  2. Definitions Revised:

    • The bill revises definitions related to brewers, dealers, wholesalers, and the types of licenses required.
    • Key definitions include:
      • Brewer: A person licensed to manufacture beer, whether in-state or out-of-state.
      • Contractee Brewer: A brewer producing fewer than 30,000 barrels annually who contracts with another brewer.
      • Wholesaler: A person licensed to sell beer to retailers and distribute it from warehouses located within Idaho.

  3. Licensing Requirements:

    • All brewers must apply for a license through the Idaho State Police, which includes a fingerprint-based criminal history check.
    • The bill clarifies that brewers producing fewer than 30,000 barrels annually can obtain a retail license to sell their products directly to consumers.

  4. Geographic Territory for Wholesalers:

    • Wholesalers must designate a geographic territory for distribution, which cannot be changed without mutual consent from the dealer or brewer.

  5. Emergency Declaration:

    • The bill includes a declaration of emergency, allowing it to take effect immediately upon signing.

Impact

  • Brewers: The legislation affects both in-state and out-of-state small brewers, requiring them to establish a physical presence in Idaho.
  • Regulatory Bodies: Agencies such as the Idaho State Police and the Division of Alcohol Beverage Control will have enhanced authority to conduct inspections and enforce compliance.
  • Market Dynamics: The bill aims to create a more equitable marketplace for brewers, potentially impacting pricing and availability of beer products in Idaho.

Fiscal Note

The legislation is projected to have no additional costs or revenue impacts for state or local governments.

Legislative Actions

  • March 19, 2025: Signed by Governor; effective immediately.
  • March 13, 2025: Passed in the Senate.
  • February 19, 2025: Introduced and referred to the State Affairs Committee.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill 276, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the expected impact on the brewing industry in Idaho.

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

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