Student fantasies of a world with free beer are closer to becoming a reality in Wisconsin—three ounces at a time.
Thanks to a new law passed Tuesday by the state legislature, shoppers can sip on microbrews while purchasing their groceries.
The law allows licensed stores to distribute two three-ounce samples of beer available for sale in the store to each legal-aged customer. The stores will be allowed to distribute samples of their choice between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
The bill unanimously passed through both the state Assembly and Senate Tuesday afternoon. The bill was initially proposed by state Rep. Pat Kreitlow, D-Chippewa Falls, in late March and was introduced to the Senate April 2.
State Rep. and Assembly Democratic Leader Spencer Black, D-Madison, said this bill could help local breweries demonstrate their distinctive bold tastes.
Lawmakers argue that in letting customers sample local varieties, the bill could allow microbreweries to compete with larger beer companies.
""There's a lot of Wisconsin tradition in our breweries. It's not the only thing Wisconsin does well, but there's a lot of pride in our local breweries,"" said Josh Wescott, spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Judy Robson, D-Beloit.
Shoppers must provide proper identification to receive samples in order to prevent underage abuse. Checking IDs will also allow the stores to monitor the amount of samples consumed by customers.
Black said he is confident the law will be properly enforced.
""I think the bill has all the necessary safeguards in it and will showcase our local breweries,"" he said.
UW-Madison sophomore Chris DeSilva said he was excited and enthusiastic about the new law.
""Sounds like a sweet idea to me,"" DeSilva said.
When asked whether he would be partaking in the free sampling, he responded, ""Well, obviously.""
