If there's one thing that can bring state House Republicans and Democrats together, it's a batch of Michigan craft beer.
The bi-partisan legislation would also allow larger brewers such as Bell's and Founders to open more than one location in the state.
Among other things, the House Bills 4709, 4710, 4711 would double the number of barrels that microbrewers could produce each year.
Democratic state Representative Andy Schor says the economic impact of Michigan's craft brewers should not be underestimated. And he says the legislation would only enhance that impact.
"Right now, they're bumping up against a cap that was created 20 years ago. The industry has just lit on fire and is expanding, so we're going to allow for that expansion."
Beer and wine distributors in Michigan have long been opposed to easing restrictions on craft brewers. But after months of negotiations, they have decided to support this legislation.
*This post has been updated.
