SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Alliance today urged Illinois House lawmakers to pass legislation to level the playing field for licensing fees on wineries across the state. The Illinois wine industry is a major agri-tourism draw and unique set of growing small businesses in Illinois that were singled out for a 60% licensing fee increase during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Senate Bill 1001 would help provide equity for wineries compared to its counterparts in the beer and spirits industries by reducing the significant licensing fee increase. SB 1001 passed the Senate unanimously, and IGGVA members are urging House legislators to pass the bill during the lame duck session. To summarize, SB 1001 will: Reduce to pre-pandemic levels a 60% license fee increase for Illinois wineries. Reduce winery licensing fees to level the playing field in the wine, beer and spirits industry. Put licensing fees on par with neighboring states, including Missouri,
Continue Reading