Budweiser’s Lobbying Efforts Against the “Stone Bill” Raise Eyebrows

In a recent committee meeting in the South Carolina Senate, tensions ran high as discussions unfolded about the proposed “Stone Bill,” officially known as H.3512. This legislation could potentially pave the way for Stone Brewing Company to establish an east coast brewery in South Carolina. However, what caught many observers’ attention was the sheer scale of lobbying efforts, particularly from the beer giant Anheuser-Busch (AB), which dispatched an impressive team of eight lobbyists to advocate against the bill. In stark contrast, the South Carolina Brewers Association was represented by a single, non-paid lobbyist.

The committee has scheduled a vote on the bill for next Tuesday, making the current climate particularly critical for local craft breweries. It’s fascinating to note how a single company can mobilize such resources in the legislative arena, possibly overshadowing the voices of smaller entities like the Brewers Association.

For those interested in the details, you can view the bill here. Additionally, Budweiser’s formal letter opposing the bill can be accessed here.

The “Stone Bill” is essential for craft breweries in the region, as it facilitates a shift in laws that might make the establishment of Stone’s proposed brewery in South Carolina more feasible. It’s noteworthy that this initiative was strategically named to leverage Stone Brewing’s growing popularity, as noted by references in local media.

For a glimpse of the lobbying action, here’s a photograph capturing the scene, with the group of lobbyists congregated in the background. View Image.

As we brace for the upcoming vote, it’s crucial to stay informed and engaged with how this legislative decision could shape the future of craft brewing in South Carolina. Cheers!