Committee advances bill to allow Arkansas microbreweries broader distribution

Little Rock — Albert Braunfisch, co‑owner of Lost 40 Brewing in Little Rock, presented a bill aimed at allowing Arkansas microbreweries access to in‑state distribution channels typically used by large macro breweries. Braunfisch said the proposal would create "a level playing field for Arkansas businesses" and would require the same permitting as other distilleries or breweries; he also said it would not apply to wet counties.

There were no committee questions or public signups in opposition, and the committee moved and seconded a do‑pass recommendation. A voice vote recorded 'aye' and the chair declared the bill passed by the committee.

The bill was presented as narrow and regulatory parity‑oriented; the transcript records only brief discussion and no reported amendments.