Craft beer lovers toast new law

Craft beer lovers toast new law

Craft beer connoisseurs can finally hoist a celebratory pint for stronger brews in Mississippi.

Gov. Phil Bryant has signed into law a bill that raises the alcohol-by-weight limit in beer from 5 percent to 8 percent.

Senate Bill 2878, effective July 1, will expand the variety of beers sold in the state, especially craft beers. Current law limits Mississippi to about 15 of the top 100 beer brands in the world. After the new law goes into effect, about 70 of the top 100 brands could be on shelves and on tap, said a thrilled Butch Bailey, founder and president of the nonprofit, grass-roots group Raise Your Pints.

Clarion Ledger
4/10/12