The Brewers Association (BA) applauds the introduction of legislation in the U.S. Senate that would support and strengthen agritourism. The AGRITOURISM Act (S. 3392) was introduced by Sens. Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Ted Budd (R-NC) with 14 bipartisan cosponsors. The bill aims to improve coordination among federal programs that support agritourism and rural businesses while strengthening connections between producers, hospitality based agricultural businesses, and USDA resources.

For many small and independent breweries, agritourism plays a meaningful role in driving visitation, supporting local agriculture, and strengthening rural economies. BA President and CEO Bart Watson welcomed the legislation, saying, “The Brewers Association supports the AGRITOURISM Act, which recognizes craft breweries as vital contributors to America’s agricultural and rural tourism economies. This legislation will strengthen local supply chains, expand opportunities for small and independent brewers, and help communities thrive.”

The AGRITOURISM Act would designate a senior USDA official to coordinate agritourism related activities and serve as a central point of contact. It would also improve awareness and accessibility of existing federal programs that support rural development and tourism.

The BA will continue to engage with lawmakers as the bill moves forward and advocate for policies that recognize the role craft brewers play in agricultural innovation and local tourism economies.