New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed the craft beverage law to ease the restrictions imposed on alcoholic beverage producers.
Expected to come into effect by the end of this year, the law will allow farm distilleries to increase the retail outlets where they can sell and offer samples of their products, as well as operate a branch office, by eliminating the need for a separate license.
The law will also reduce costs for small manufacturers by increasing the production cap and permitting the production of more product without increased fees.
It will also allow producers to conduct tastings and serve by the bottle and by the glass.
Cuomo said: "New York produces some of the best wine, beer, spirits and cider in the world -- an industry which not only creates jobs but supports farmers and brings in tourism dollars across every corner of the state.
"This new law builds upon this administration's ongoing efforts to promote this industry by cutting red tape, reducing burdensome regulations and removing artificial barriers that stifled growth. New York is truly open for business, and I thank my partners in the legislature for their hard work in making this a success for all of our craft beverage businesses."
Governor has also launched a $2m Craft Beverage Marketing and Promotion Grant Program and a $1m Craft Beverage Industry Tourism Promotion Grant.
