| Vote Recommendation | Economic Freedom | Property Rights | Personal Responsibility | Limited Government | Individual Liberty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Positive | Neutral | Neutral | Positive | Positive |
Relating to the importation and use for manufacturing purposes of
malt beverages by the holder of a brewer’s permit or manufacturer’s
license.
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
HB 1998 would allow holders of brewer's permits and manufacturer's licenses to import ale and malt liquor for manufacturing purposes, and would allow blended malt and liquor to be sold. The bill would additionally prevent the state tax on ale and malt liquor from accruing until the ale or malt liquor has been used for manufacturing purposes and the resultant product has been placed in containers for sale.
Texas Action supports HB 1998 for promoting the principles of free markets, individual liberty and limited government. Stringent regulations on the sale and manufacturing of alcohol in Texas burdens a large amount of selling between consenting individuals and brewers. Brewers deserve the right to import, manufacture, and sell products as much as Texans deserve the right to purchase and consume alcohol without unnecessary government interference.