The New York State Distillers Guild is pleased to thank and applaud Governor Hochul, who has signed a bill that will allow its members to ship products to adult consumers (A3132-Lupardo/S2852-Skoufis). Under the new law, which takes effect in 90 days, New York State distillers will be authorized to ship direct to consumers (DTC) within the state, as well as to states where DTC shipping is authorized.
The new law extends a privilege that New York wineries have had for nearly 20 years, which has allowed them to successfully reach consumers and thrive.
NYS Distillers Guild President Brian Facquet said, “Governor Hochul’s signature on this landmark legislation changes the game for New York State’s distillers, who produce some of the highest quality spirits in the world. This new law will enable us to build our brands and compete in the global spirits industry. The Guild thanks Governor Hochul for her support of New York distillers and for giving us this essential route to bring our products to market. Governor Hochul’s signature builds on the terrific work of our lead legislative sponsors Assemblywoman Lupardo and Senator Skoufis over many years, as well as the work of the State Liquor Authority and other Executive Branch agencies that have been supportive. This new law creates the possibility of a bright future for our producers, and is great for consumers, the farmers who grow our core ingredients, and our hospitality and tourism allies.”
NYS Distillers Guild Executive Director Teresa Casey said, “Governor Hochul’s signature on this historic legislation changes the face of the Empire State’s craft beverage sector. The Guild thanks Governor Hochul for her vision in signing this crucial legislation that will enable our distillers to send their products to the consumers who want them. The Guild raises a glass in gratitude to Governor Hochul and our lead legislative sponsors, and all the public policymakers who have supported this common-sense extension of the farm-celebrating businesses facilitated by the Empire State’s farm beverage licenses.”
Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said, “I have witnessed the remarkable growth of NY’s craft spirits and cider industry since we first established their licenses in 2007 and 2013. Allowing them to safely and securely ship direct is a way to grow NY’s small business sector, while satisfying growing consumer demand. If products are unavailable in local stores, the public has come to expect an on-line option, just like they have enjoyed with wine purchases. I’d like to thank the Governor and my legislative colleagues for recognizing how important this legislation is for the future of NY’s craft beverage industry and for the farmers who supply their ingredients.”
“This new law offers not just support, but a new pathway for growth to countless New York cideries and distilleries,” said Senator James Skoufis. “I fought hard for the passage of this bill – alongside Assemblywoman Lupardo and legislative partners – because I want New York’s craft beverage industry and all the intrepid farmers, producers, and small business owners to do more than survive in a post-pandemic landscape; I want them to thrive. I want to thank the New York State Distillers Guild and all of the advocates who worked tirelessly on behalf of this bill that will have a measurable and meaningful impact on craft beverage producers not just in my district, but all across New York State.”
State Liquor Chair Lily Fan says, “The team at the State Liquor Authority elatedly celebrates the signing of the Direct To Consumer shipping bill by Governor Kathy Hochul this past Sunday. We are proud to support the future economic growth of New York’s brilliant craft alcoholic beverage manufacturing industry while balancing public safety. We believe that this change will modernize the way small-size New York manufacturers can engage with their consumers, enormously improve their potential for brand recognition, and profit from a true following.”
