Florida Governor Rick Scott has signed a bill that will allow state breweries to sell beer in the 64-ounce refillable size called “growler” from 1 July
The new law would see the end of long standing "growler" war over beer sizes between craft brewers and big beverage distributors in Florida.
Florida was the lone state to ban the "growlers" in the US. Current requirements mandate sale of 32-ounce and 128-ounce growlers, while 64-ounce was not permitted.
In a statement Florida governor Rick Scott said: "By making the sale of 64 ounce growlers legal in Florida, we are eliminating another burdensome regulation and allowing more Florida businesses to succeed. We are pleased to continue to create a world class business environment where all businesses, including breweries, can succeed. I would like to thank Senator Latvala and Representatives Sprowls and Young for their work on this legislation."
Florida Brewers Guild president Mike Halker said: "Growlers will give our customers more choices, increase our sales, and directly benefit Florida and its taxpayers."
The law also mandates limits on cup sizes to 3.5 ounces for beer tastings; ban on use of electronic-benefits transfer cards, formerly known as food stamps to buy alcoholic beverages; and cap the number of tap-room licenses a single brewer can hold to eight.
This is to limit a large brewer from taking over the retail market. The new law also limits the amount of beer brewers may transfer from one brewery location to another.
