CHEERS Act: A Toast to the Future of Draft Beer
In a recent episode of the Steel Keg Association's SKA Cast, host Dan Vorlage sat down with Brian Crawford, president and CEO of the Beer Institute, to discuss the exciting new CHEERS Act and its potential to revitalize the beer industry.
Draft Beer: The Heart of the Industry
The CHEERS Act, a bipartisan bill introduced in the House of Representatives, aims to provide a tax deduction for draft systems designed to reinvigorate the draft beer segment, which has seen a 20% decline since the pandemic.
"Draft beer is where brands are made," Crawford emphasized, highlighting the unique role draft plays in the beer industry. It's where consumers often try new beers, experience the freshest brews, and enjoy the camaraderie of their favorite bars and restaurants.
A Collaborative Effort
The CHEERS Act has garnered strong support from across the beer industry, with major players like the National Beer Wholesalers Association, the Brewers Association, and the American Beverage Licensees all endorsing the bill.
This collaborative spirit is something Vorlage sees as a major win for the industry. "It's the kind of thing that...seems like it really has this potential for us to win as we walk down the path to hopefully getting it passed in 2025," he remarked.
Benefits Beyond the Bottom Line
The benefits of the CHEERS Act extend far beyond the financial. By supporting the hospitality industry, the act aims to revitalize communities and local economies. It also promotes sustainability by reducing waste and encourages the consumption of fresher, higher-quality beer.
"Whether you're a Democrat and you're focused on environmental sustainability and recyclability, we cover that, or you're a Republican and you're focused on job creation and lower taxes for businesses, we cover that," Crawford explained.
A Call to Action
Both Crawford and Vorlage urged listeners to get involved by reaching out to their members of Congress and supporting the Beer Institute's efforts to promote the CHEERS Act.
"This is all foundational work that we're going to do for the rest of 2024 with our eye on the next Congress," Crawford stated, emphasizing the importance of building momentum for the bill's passage in 2025.
A Toast to the Future
The CHEERS Act represents a unique opportunity for the beer industry to come together and support a brighter future for draft beer, the hospitality industry, and the communities they serve.
So, raise a glass to the CHEERS Act, and let's work together to make it a reality!
Watch the full episode here…