In 2013, a bill was signed into law that allowed Rhode Island breweries to “provide to visitors in conjunction with a tour and/or tasting, samples…not to exceed 72 ounces per visitor…for off-premise consumption.” It was a small but significant step to help Rhode Island breweries to grow and prosper. But more steps need to be taken to foster these ambitious and forward-thinking small businesses, remove regulatory hurdles — and enable beer lovers to purchase and enjoy more delicious local beer.

We support:

• Abolishing the limit on the sale of ounces-per-visit (note: there is no limit on the number of growlers that can be purchased at brewpubs).

• The passage of a bill to allow pint sales in tasting rooms, which would enhance the brewery-visiting experience for locals and tourists.

Legislative change will also allow Rhode Island to keep pace with its neighbors. Regulations for liquor stores — allowing Sunday sales and then expanding hours of operation — were updated to prevent a loss of sales to establishments in Massachusetts and Connecticut. Let’s level the laws for breweries, too! There is no cap on the number of growlers you can purchase in Massachusetts; in Connecticut, customers can buy up to 304 ounces per visit. And taprooms are filled with cheer in both states.

When breweries can sell more beer, they can expand — and create jobs. Changing the laws will bolster the economic growth of a thriving local industry and enable consumers to benefit from convenience and choice.

Contact your legislators and Governor Raimondo and urge them to support Rhode Island’s hard-working and dedicated beermakers — and your consumer rights to quality, choice, and value.

Please sign — and share — the petition! Cheers!