Garden State Times

Senator Michael Testa (R-1) criticized Governor Murphy for his approach towards liquor reform, stating that it undermines tourism in New Jersey. Testa expressed his concerns, saying, "Governor Murphy's decision to hold our breweries hostage in a broader liquor license reform debate runs counter to the State's push to grow our tourism industry." He highlighted the negative impact of oppressive regulations on breweries, leading to closures and decreased competitiveness.

The plight of breweries in New Jersey was further emphasized by a brewery owner who revealed, "In June, one brewery owner said that nine breweries had gone out of business in the last year due to the restrictions and warned that the number could double." This alarming trend signals the urgent need for reform to support the survival and growth of these establishments.

Recent developments indicated that Governor Murphy plans to conditionally veto a bipartisan brewery bill, frustrating efforts to address the challenges faced by breweries. Senator Testa's sponsored legislation, S-3038, aimed to alleviate the burdensome regulations hindering breweries in the state. The bill, which received unanimous support in both houses, sought to enhance the operating environment for breweries and improve their competitiveness.

The ongoing debate surrounding liquor license reform and its implications on the brewery industry underscores the importance of balancing regulatory measures with the promotion of tourism and economic growth in New Jersey.