The Brewers Association of Maryland (“BAM”) thanks Comptroller Peter Franchot and the members of the “Reform On Tap” Task Force for their diligent and thorough work. The Task Force findings highlight what we have come to know: Maryland breweries create good paying jobs, invest in every region of our great state and are engines for much needed economic growth in local communities. The recommendations also recognize that Marylanders of every background want to responsibly enjoy craft beers made locally right here in their own state, their own community and their own neighborhood. BAM looks forward to building on the work of the Task Force and partnering with state and local legislators to modernize Maryland laws regulating craft beer. This will benefit all business entrepreneurs and hard-working employees that contribute to the Maryland alcoholic beverage industry – including our friends in distribution and retail. In doing so, it is our goal to have Maryland join the rest of the country in expanding this modern manufacturing sector.
Report & Findings
- Maryland Craft Beer: A World Without Limits – Findings of the Reform On Tap Task Force
- Coverage by “Brewed in Maryland” blog by Maureen O’Prey
- Coverage by “Naptown Pint” blog by Liz Murphy
- Coverage by “DC Beer” blog by Greg Parnas
About the Task Force
Learn more about the Task Force. In response to the passage of House Bill 1283 during the 2017 Legislative Session and with the goal of modernizing Maryland’s beer laws and promoting economic growth across the State, Comptroller Peter Franchot established “Reform On Tap” Task Force in April 2017.
The task force, chaired by Comptroller Franchot and composed of 40 members representing key stakeholder groups within the beer industry, will perform a comprehensive review of the State’s antiquated laws that govern the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of Maryland craft beer.
About the Brewers Association of Maryland
The Brewers Association of Maryland (“BAM”) was formed in 1996 and consists of more than 70 small businesses throughout Maryland. Members must be incorporated and also brew beer in Maryland. Collectively BAM Members pay over $53 million in taxes to the State of Maryland annually.
BAM members produce more than 200,000 barrels per year. Importantly, producing that much artisanal craft beer requires a trained local workforce – meaning more manufacturing jobs in local Maryland communities – whereby BAM members directly and indirectly employ over 6,000 Marylanders.
The Maryland brewing industry dates back to colonial times and today, is one of the fastest growing segments of the craft beverage economy. The Brewers Association of Maryland, founded in 1996 is a non-profit, member based, trade association representing more than 70 breweries across the state. The mission of BAM is to grow, promote and protect the Maryland craft beer industry through marketing, advocacy & education. BAM is represented by the management group, Grow & Fortify. For more information, please visit www.marylandbeer.org.
