SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Senator Donne E. Trotter (D-Chicago) passed legislation out of the General Assembly to allow smaller brewers to distribute their own products throughout Illinois, in limited qualities. Thursday Governor Pat Quinn signed this measure, Senate Bill 754, into law.

"This legislation provides a needed change for smaller breweries," Senator Trotter said. "Since Prohibition in 1933, state regulations have not changed with regard to these businesses. This law will allow smaller breweries to expand and supply their consumers’ demands."

Under this legislation small brewers are defined as those that manufacture a maximum of 465,000 gallons of beer annually to self distribute at a quantity not to exceed 232,500 gallons per year. With this provision the law establishes a framework to help craft breweries to grow in Illinois while maintaining the state regulatory system.

The law will also allow brew pubs, bars that brew their own beer and sell it on their premises, to own and operate a craft brewery out of a separate location.

News Story:

Quinn clears way for area brewery to roll out Springfield Wheat beer - Springfield, IL - The State Journal-Register

http://www.sj-r.com/top-stories/x1293702642/Quinn-clears-way-for-area-brewery-to-roll-out-Springfield-Wheat-beer