Bill > LD1376

This bill amends Maine's liquor laws by increasing the maximum alcohol content for low-alcohol spirits products from 8% to 15% alcohol by volume. Currently defined as products containing spirits with more than 0.5% but no more than 8% alcohol, the bill expands this definition to allow products up to 15% alcohol. The legislation also broadens the sales permissions for these products, allowing businesses licensed to sell malt liquor or wine to sell low-alcohol spirits products both for on-premises and off-premises consumption. Additionally, in-state wholesalers of malt liquor or wine will now be authorized to sell and distribute low-alcohol spirits products. The bill specifically clarifies that these provisions do not apply to flavoring extracts or concentrates that are added to malt beverages or wine for enhancement purposes, which were already excluded from the previous definition. This change effectively increases the availability and market potential for lower-strength spirit-based beverages in Maine.

Military Affairs and Security

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1376&snum=132