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Craft brewers and beer distributors in the state would be allowed to use Facebook and Twitter to promote their beer under legislation awaiting a hearing Wednesday in a Michigan Senate committee.
Believe it or not, it’s illegal for a brewer to talk up an event or name a bar that has their beer on tap on social media. Same goes for a distributor.
It’s part of a wrinkle in the three-tier distribution system that forbids providing something of value to a bar or liquor store. And a plug on social media is likened to advertising – which carries value.
Scott Graham of the Michigan Brewers Guild calls that outdated and says it should be changed. Legislation before a Senate committee would allow a brewer, distributor, distiller or wine maker to use social media to plug their products.
A similar bill has also been introduced in the House.
