OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Washington lawmakers want to allow beer and wine tastings at farmers markets to help promote the state’s wineries and microbreweries.
Representatives from across the state touted their own district’s wineries as the best as the state House debated a bill that would establish a pilot program for beer and wine tastings at select farmers markets.
Democrat Rep. Phyllis Gutierrez-Kenney of Seattle says that allowing tastings at farmers markets will help publicize local products and boost the economy of small businesses.
Opponents argued the change would loosen restrictions on alcoholic beverages and provide another venue for minors to be exposed to them. But the bill passed 78-20 and now goes to the Senate.
