TRENTON, NEW JERSEY – Senator Michael Testa (R-1) accuses Governor Murphy of weakening New Jersey’s tourism by using breweries as bargaining chips in broader liquor license reforms.
“Governor Murphy’s decision has negative consequences for our state’s tourism industry,” said Testa. “The oppressive rules are causing breweries to shut down and hindering their ability to serve food or hold events. I’ve sponsored legislation to relieve them of these constraints.”
In June, a local brewery owner revealed that nine New Jersey breweries have closed within the past year due to these regulations. The same owner warned the number of closures could double if changes aren’t made soon.
Today, it was reported that Governor Murphy intends to conditionally veto a bipartisan bill aimed at easing restrictions on breweries. Senator Testa had sponsored the legislation, S-3038, which had passed unanimously in both houses. The bill aimed to eliminate restrictions that have made New Jersey breweries less competitive compared to those in neighboring states.