House Resolution 1297 has been introduced, and referred to committee, that recognizes American Craft Beer Week, May 17-23, and highlights the valuable role small and independent craft brewers play through community citizenry, economic contributions, such as the estimated 100,000 jobs in the industry, and the resurgence in a rich brewing culture not seen since before Prohibition.

U.S. Representative Betsy Markey (CO) spearheaded the Congressional “shout-out” with 7 other members of congress including Oregon Congressman Peter DeFazio, co-chair of the House Small Brewers Caucus.  DeFazio had just addressed the craft brewing community earlier in April as part of a dual keynote at the Craft Brewers Conference in Chicago with Massachusetts Representative Richard Neal, who has introduced HR 4278 legislation to lower the small brewer excise tax rate in an attempt to create even more jobs in the industry.

American Craft Beer Week was created in 2006 and recognized with a resolution by Congress. This year’s resolution stands as a testament to the success that it and other regional craft beer weeks have had since then. While no central event is planned, craft brewers and supporters of American Craft Beer Week are encouraged to celebrate throughout the week at their local establishments that are holding events or, adults of legal drinking age, should find their way to their local craft beer provider and share a six pack with friends.