As released, the President’s proposed Fiscal Year 2010 Budget contained provisions authorizing the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to impose fees on the companies it regulates for purposes of funding the majority of its $109 million budget. Brewers, vintners, distillers, wholesalers and retailers would all be required to pay annual fees (essentially a re-imposition of the Special Occupational Tax that Congress repealed in 2005) and/or user fees for federally-mandated requirements and services. As proposed, the fee structure would disproportionately impact small businesses. BA staff and Board members worked closely with a broad colition of alcohol industry members in opposition to the proposal and thus far these provisions have not appeared in any appropriations legislation. BA staff continues to monitor the issue.
TTB Budget Funding Proposal
Pete Johnson served as the State & Regulatory Affairs Manager for the Brewers Association (BA) until 2024. He joined the BA at its inception in 2005, having previously worked as Programs Director for the Brewers Association of America. Before coming to the small brewing industry in 2001, Pete worked for 14 years with both state and federal elected officials in Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C.
See Pete Johnson's ArticlesPete Johnson served as the State & Regulatory Affairs Manager for the Brewers Association (BA) until 2024. He joined the BA at its inception in 2005, having previously worked as Programs Director for the Brewers Association of America. Before coming to the small brewing industry in 2001, Pete worked for 14 years with both state and federal elected officials in Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C.
See Pete Johnson's Articles