Craft beer industry waiting on Tomblin bill

Craft beer brewers are eagerly awaiting the details of Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin’s legislation to release restrictions on the industry to help it grow. The governor mentioned the industry in the State of the State Address last Wednesday.

“We must encourage the same innovation we ask of all of those investing in our state and allow our state’s entrepreneurs to put their skills to work without the burden of unnecessary state restrictions,” Tomblin said. “That’s why tonight I am proposing legislation to give our craft brewers increased opportunities to succeed as part of our state’s growing craft beer industry.”

Fayetteville craft beer expert Pat Strader said he hopes the legislation will include allowing a ‘Growler Hour’ at breweries.

“That’s going to give opportunities to other brewers who do not have a pub per say that they could things like a ‘Growler Hour’ will they will it up for you,” Strader said.

Such a move would help the craft breweries in West Virginia according to Strader.

“Tourism is big here in West Virginia. People take those home they share beer with their friends, it just continues to help get the word out there,” he said.

There are currently 11 craft beer breweries in West Virginia with five of those being located in brew-pubs.

The craft beer industry also hopes Tomblin’s bill will include a provision that will allow for beer tasting events much like wineries.