Legislation To Allow Dogs In NJ Breweries Passes Senate

Heading to a local brewery for a frosty glass? Next time you head out you may be able to take your furry friend with you. Legislation was introduced by Senator Mike Doherty (R-23) and Kip Bateman (R-16) and passed unanimously by the New Jersey State Senate on Monday.

The bill S-2753 would allow dogs only in the sampling and tasting areas of New Jersey breweries, including indoor-only establishments.

The bill was introduced in June in response after Czig Meister Breweing Company in Hackettstown was forced to no longer allow dogs. (See Related: Dogs No Longer Allowed Inside Czig Meister Brewing Company) (Related: Legislation Would Allow Dogs In NJ Microbreweries)

"Any time we see an industry that’s actually growing in New Jersey, we should seize any opportunity we can to help those businesses succeed," Doherty said. "Employers face enough challenges as it is because of all the red tape in this state. Our bill was inspired by all of the brewery owners who have been vocal about the fact that being dog-friendly is good for business. Eliminating the regulation that keeps dogs out of breweries is an easy way to keep craft beer flowing in the Garden State."

Under the bill, dogs would not be allowed in areas where brews are made to avoid contamination. Dogs would also be prohibited from areas where they risk contaminating clean equipment, glassware, or anything designated for the consumption of brewed products.

Additionally, breweries would be required to clean areas where dogs were allowed including cleaning and sanitizing any messes or accidents from dogs.

Brewery staff members would also not be allowed to have direct contact with dogs while on duty, and would be required to immediately wash their hands should direct contact occur. To view a copy of the bill, click here.

"Across New Jersey, craft breweries are on the rise. We know how popular these destinations have become even in smaller communities, particularly among young adults," Bateman said. "Millennials will funnel $200 billion into the U.S. economy this year alone. Research also shows that millennials also spend more than $1,285 per year on their pets. Unfortunately, this generation is leaving New Jersey at higher rate than any other population group, including retirees. By allowing dogs in breweries, we can give the next generation of NJ families another reason to stay in New Jersey and frequent the businesses they love."

(Image via Shutterstock)

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