Gov. Approves Rooney Bill Allowing Special Events At Wineries

Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation allowing wineries to host special events, a move that could contribute hundreds of millions of dollars to the state's economy.

The bill extends a special pilot program for another two years that has allowed such events as weddings, and retirement and birthday parties at wineries. The events, which must account for less than 50 percent of a winery's gross income, must be held on a Friday, weekend, or federal and state holidays.

“In our nation’s competitive environment, New Jersey ranks the sixth highest state in wine production because we do a good job in promoting agricultural tourism, such as this pilot program,” said Rooney (District 40). “Wineries hosting jazz festivals, food truck gatherings and seasonal events will give the industry a chance to establish a path for continued growth and a more prominent position among the nation’s wine producers.”

Assembly Ron Dancer (District 12) co-sponsored the bill with Rooney. He noted that the state's vineyard and wine industry annual contributes $323 million the state's economy.

“Extending this pilot program for two years will give us more time to understand how well it’s working, what improvements may be needed and, hopefully, make the program permanent,” Dancer said in the press release.

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