House Bill 2207, which received approval early Saturday morning, would allow licensed warehouses to store and handle beer under the same framework currently used for wine and spirits
The Washington State House of Representatives passed Legislation sponsored by Rep. Stephanie McClintock to update and clarify Washington’s alcohol warehousing statutes to reflect modern business operations and better support the state’s brewing industry.
House Bill 2207, which received approval early Saturday morning, would allow licensed warehouses to store and handle beer under the same framework currently used for wine and spirits. The measure is designed to improve efficiency and flexibility for Washington breweries, particularly small and mid-sized producers.
“Washington’s craft brewing sector is innovative and constantly evolving,” said McClintock, R-Vancouver. “State law should keep up with how these businesses currently operate. This bill offers clearer rules and practical flexibility while continuing to maintain strong oversight and protections for consumers.”
The legislation would formally recognize two separate warehouse licenses-one for wine and one for beer-providing statutory clarity, especially for breweries that rely on off-site storage and fulfillment.
“By bringing beer warehousing in line with existing standards for other alcohol categories, we can help breweries, especially smaller ones, manage inventory and distribution more effectively,” McClintock said. “This policy will expand jobs and help local businesses. I’m always in favor of helping business owners in my community.”
HB 2207 would benefit small wineries, craft breweries, logistics providers, and consumers across Washington. It would also encourage industry growth by allowing producers to share warehousing space and streamline packaging and labeling operations. Greater flexibility could help reduce costs, expand market access, and ease space constraints at production facilities.
Under the bill, state excise taxes would be collected when products leave the warehouse, allowing businesses to better manage cash flow, while ensuring taxes are paid when goods enter the marketplace.
The proposal also permits facilities to store wine, beer, and non-alcoholic products in the same secured space if the operator holds both licenses.
“This is a practical, forward-looking update that helps Washington producers compete, innovate, and get their products to customers more efficiently,” McClintock said. “It supports small businesses and jobs while preserving a responsible regulatory structure.”
The bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration.
Information provided by the Washington State House Republicans, houserepublicans.wa.gov
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