Senator Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire recently stopped by Smuttynose Brewing Company during her tour of local businesses. The Senator toured the brewery and sampled some of their offerings.
During the visit, owner Peter Egelston and brewer David Yarrington were able to discuss obstacles they face as a small brewery–from regulation to federal excise taxes. Senator Ayotte hopes to help in whatever way she is able. She recognizes the impact the brewery has on the local community and economy. Nationally, small and independent brewers employ approximately 108,440 full- and part-time employees and generate more than $3 billion in wages and benefits and pay more than $2.3 billion in business, personal and consumption taxes. With a new brewery coming online soon, Smuttynose will be adding even more local jobs.Â