WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – On Tuesday, distilleries began preparing for a new state law, allowing them to ship spirits and hard cider directly to customers.
It was signed by Governor Hochul on Monday.
‘This legislation will be a great thing, particularly for our small business. As well as other small businesses in our area,’ said Taren Beller, Tug Hill Estate’s owner.
During the pandemic, the governor made this a temporary law so distilleries were able to make money during difficult times.
Beller believes that this legislation could benefit small businesses in multiple ways.
‘That can help both promote agriculture and improve the opportunities for small business,’ said Beller.
While the governor’s intentions may seem positive, one local distillery is worried that it could increase business for bigger companies, and hurt mom-and-pop operations.
‘I don’t know for sure that it is going to work out exactly as it’s anticipated. I would love it to work out, but big money changes things,’ said Dark Island Spirits President Roger Reifensnyder.
The law will come into effect in November.
The governor believes that this will be just in time for the holidays.