Mass. Breweries Threatened By Proposed New Rule

More than two dozen small beer brewers in Massachusetts say a rules change proposed by the state could hurt their businesses or even force them to close.

The rules change approved Monday by the state Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission would require brewers operating under a so-called farmer-brewery license to grow at least half the hops and grains they use, or get them from a domestic source.

Brewers say that would be difficult.

Jeremy Goldberg, the owner of Cape Ann Brewing Co. in Gloucester, tells The Boston Globe the rule will put him out of business.

State officials say the change is meant to clarify regulations defining a farmer-brewer, or someone who grows cereal grains or hops to produce a malt beverage. The law is designed to promote farming in Massachusetts.