SACRAMENTO : Assembly OKs Bill on Beer Labeling

An industry-backed bill allowing brewers to label high-potency drinks simply as beer passed easily in the Assembly on Thursday and appeared to be headed for final legislative passage in coming days. The Assembly voted 49 to 13 to permit use of the term beer on a range of products irrespective of alcohol content. To be called beer now, a brewed drink must contain alcohol of no more than 5%. The state Senate has already approved the measure (SB 1796) by Sen. Mike Thompson (D-St. Helena). After minor legislative action, the bill is expected to go to Gov. Pete Wilson, who has not taken a position. Opponents of the measure argued against removing the distinctions between beer and beer-like drinks such as malt liquor, ale and bock that contain 6% to 8% alcohol and in some brews 17%. That would only invite more problem drinking and drunk driving, especially among teenagers, they said. Proponents called the change harmless.