Allows the holder of a manufacturer’s license to sell one-sixth of a barrel keg or any otherwise permitted vessel containing no more than the amount of malt beverage allowed.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would change Rhode Island's alcohol laws to give licensed beer manufacturers — such as breweries — more flexibility in how they can sell their products. Specifically, it would allow manufacturers to sell beer in a one-sixth barrel keg (commonly known as a "sixtel," which holds about 5 gallons) or in any other similarly sized or smaller approved container. Currently, there may be restrictions on what container sizes manufacturers are permitted to sell directly.

The bill primarily affects licensed beer manufacturers in Rhode Island, such as local breweries and craft beer producers, as well as their customers — which could include bars, restaurants, and potentially consumers depending on existing licensing rules. By allowing smaller keg sizes to be sold, manufacturers would have more options for packaging and distribution, which could make it easier and more affordable for smaller establishments or events to purchase draft beer in quantities that better match their needs.

This legislation has been introduced in the Rhode Island Senate and referred to the Senate Special Legislation and Veterans Affairs Committee, where it will be reviewed before any further action is taken. It represents a relatively narrow, technical update to the state's existing alcohol beverage manufacturing and wholesale licensing rules.