Cheers! As of yesterday — July 1, 2013 — homebrewing is now legal in all 50 states.
Beer lovers across the nation are rejoicing as homebrewing legislation passes in Mississippi, making the beloved craft legal in all 50 states.
First federally legalized in 1978 — for the first time since Prohibition made it illegal in 1919 — homebrewing and regulation of alcohol is left largely to each state. Mississippi and Alabama are the last two states to allow residents to brew beer at home, with Alabama’s new law coming in immediately after Governor Robert Bentley signed the bill on May 9, 2013.
Gary Glass, director of the American Homebrewers Association, speaks out about the newly passed laws:
“Homebrewers are deeply dedicated to their craft and the AHA is thrilled that homebrewers in all 50 states can now legally take part in that passion.”
While the pursuit is now fully legalized, some states have existing statutes which disallow brewers from taking their crafted beverages outside their home. However, participation in the homebrewing community, club meetings, competitions, and festivals, is considered a big part of the craft.
“Sharing and community interaction are key ingredient of homebrewing,” says Glass.
“We will continue to work to protect and advance the rights of homebrewers to share their unique creations.”
Fans of the craft headed to Twitter with the good news:
#Homebrewing is now legal in all 50 states! That is a beautiful thing.
— Portland Loves Pints (@PtlndLovesPints) July 1, 2013
Homebrewing is legal in all 50 states! Lets celebrate and make more beer! #homebrewing #craftbeer
— Brewz Brothers (@BrewzTV) July 2, 2013
Home brewing finally legal in all 50 states today as the Mississippi law goes into effect. Raise a glass to #homebrewing !
— Tom Wallace (@LugWrenchBrew) July 1, 2013
In 2012, homebrewing hit the news as recipes and kits for the White House brews became available. Ale aficionados can purchase kits for White House Honey Ale and White House Honey Porter.
According to the AHA – which boasts more than 38,000 members – the homebrewing trend has grown immensely over the last few years. At this time, it is estimated that over one million Americans are either brewing beer or making wine at home at least one per year.
[Image via Chiot’s Run via photopin cc ]
