Legislation would allow Ohio breweries to make stronger beer

A Democratic state lawmaker wants Ohio to allow the manufacture and sale of stronger brews.

State Rep. Dan Ramos (D-Lorain) said alcohol content limits in current law likely are hampering growth of the beer industry.

He said his House Bill 391 would change that.

“I believe our state is uniquely prepared to handle additional growth and take the lead nationally,” Ramos told members of the House Policy and Legislative Oversight Committee, where the legislation recently had its first hearing. “Especially when we consider the support Ohioans give to this industry already, the readiness of our work force to produce and move these products across the country and our existing infrastructure ... All of these benefits mean nothing if brewers have their hands tied by antiquated regulations.”

HB 391 would increase the legally permitted alcohol limit in beer to 21 percent from the current 12 percent.

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