Results of HDA’s February Meetings in Washington, DC

I have just returned from my latest trip to Washington, DC to continue pressing for legalization of hobby distilling.  As with most of our previous meetings in DC, much of what was said cannot be shared, but overall the meetings were positive.

Keith, the lobbyist and DC representative for the Hobby Distiller’s  Association, and I met first with Asst. Secretary of Tax Policy at the Treasury Department, Mark Mazur.  He was very pleasant, and understanding of our cause.  As expected, the primary concern for the Treasury Department is the implications of such legislation on tax revenue.  Primarily, that concern is directed toward illegal sales of untaxed liquor, how our proposed legislation may affect such activity, and whether or not it would hinder the TTB’s job of policing it.  We felt that this was a very positive sign from the Treasury, even if it fell short of an outright stamp of approval.

From the Treasury meeting we went back to the Senate to meet with Christopher Arneson, Tax Policy Advisor for Senator Ron Wyden, ranking member of the Senate Finance Committee.  We discussed the text of the Bill, addressed a couple of points where he felt minor adjustments would be beneficial, and considered potential pairing with other legislation where our Bill may be a fit.   This, combined with other discussions between Keith and Christopher, left us feeling that things are still heading in the right direction.

The Senate Finance Committee meeting was followed by a meeting with Andrew Siracuse, Tax Counsel for Senator John Cornyn.  Little was taken from this meeting except that the Senator is at least still open to the possibility of taking the lead on our legislation, but more information and discussion is needed before he would be comfortable making a decision either way.  He would also like to see as much support as possible before proceeding.  Keith will do his part in keeping Andrew in the loop on all discussions and developments, and hopefully Senator Cornyn will agree to take the lead.

Rick Morris

Chair- Hobby Distiller’s Association

Owner- Brewhaus America