Michigan’s craft beverage industry is a strong economic contributor to the state of Michigan and impacts many subsectors of our economy including tourism, manufacturing, food, and agriculture. The craft beverage industry also allows for more diversification in agriculture through the growing of specialty crops and grains that help to expand value added niche markets. This industry supports many Michigan produced commodities such as wine grapes, hops, small grains, sugar, forestry products, vegetables, stone fruits, etc., which also has the potential to serve as a large consumer for Michigan grown commodities. The Michigan craft beverage industry is an important partner in the future of Michigan farming.
We support:
Expansion of incentives for all Michigan grown commodities used in Michigan craft beverage production.
The increased funding to agritourism marketing in Michigan through the Pure Michigan or ad campaign and Craft Beverage Council.
Research and development of a Michigan oak barrel industry and other beverage related forestry products.
A microbrewery license that operates similar to the small winemaker license.
We oppose:
The unfair taxation on craft beverage products, especially those that limit the usage of certain fruits and other commodities.