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Mass. Brewers Say New Rules Threaten Local Industry

BOSTON (CBS/AP) -- More than two dozen beer brewers in Massachusetts say a rules change proposed by the state could hurt their businesses or even force them to close.

The rules change approved Monday by the state Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission would require brewers operating under a so-called farmer-brewery license to grow at least half the hops and grains they use, or get them from a domestic source.

Brewers say that would be extremely difficult.

WBZ-TV's Bill Shields reports

Any brewer that loses that license would not be allowed to operate on-site tastings. They could also be forced to employ distributors, which would cut into any revenue.

The new rule would affect a number of local brewers including the state's largest, Boston Beer Company, which is responsible for making Samuel Adams beer.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Anthony Silva reports

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Jeremy Goldberg, the owner of Cape Ann Brewing Co. in Gloucester, tells The Boston Globe the rule will put him out of business.

State officials say the change is meant to clarify regulations defining a farmer-brewer, or someone who grows cereal grains or hops to produce a malt beverage. The law is designed to promote farming in Massachusetts.

(TM and © Copyright 2011 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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