LANSING – State Representative Barb Byrum (D-Onondaga) today announced that her plan to allow small distilleries to market and sell their products onsite – which will generate at least $414 million in economic activity and create at least 1,400 new jobs in Michigan – was signed into law yesterday by the Governor.
"I am so thankful to these entrepreneurs for their investments in our communities and their desire to develop new products in our great state," said Byrum. "We have removed the hurdles that held back the development of our state's distilleries. These businesses can now achieve their potential and positively affect our economy."
The law, now called Public Act 218, creates a new class of license that allows distilleries to sell their goods on-site. The license will cost $100 annually, compared to the $1,000 fee before PA 218 was signed into law.
The licenses are similar to the ones that have always been available to microbreweries. Michigan has over 70 small brewers, which is already $25 million industry.
"Public Act 218 will allow these business people to create more jobs and invest more in our state," said Byrum. "It will also create the economic boost that Michigan really needs. With this law, we are also bringing positive attention to the true potential of Michigan's agricultural economy."