SB 163 died yesterday. Read the full press release here.
This was our last week to get the bill through the committee. Initially, we were on the schedule for a vote, but at the last minute, it was removed from the agenda.
I’m sad to say I’m not surprised about this at all. Though I chose to be hopeful, the wholesalers have more power (read money), and they won’t give that up easily. Knowing how difficult it is to obtain an inch of power in this world, I can understand why those with it are unwilling to share. Of course that doesn’t excuse anything. At all.
Despite this disappointment, I won’t let it damper my hope for future opportunities to give Georgia craft breweries the flexibilities they need to thrive. I’ll continue to share details as I get them.
And now for the exciting news! This month, I started working part time at the Brewers Association as their Social Impact Coordinator. I’ll be working closely with Dr. J Jackson-Beckham and the members of the DEI Committee and their subcommittees on all of their DEI efforts. That includes the BA’s mentorship program and the THRIVE Workshop, which you should check out if you’re heading to CBC this year.
Even before working in this industry, my goal has been to bring more diversity to craft beer. This position pushes me further into the social impact world and gives me an opportunity to learn from Dr. J and contribute to the craft beer industry on a larger scale. And I know what I learn in this position will also help me grow and improve The Share Community.
Just like starting anything new, I’m still finding my footing—learning a new environment and getting access to everything I need to do my job. It’s exciting, but definitely an adjustment as I dive into the role.
And on that note, I’m going to end this newsletter here and start manifesting a weekend full of joy and ease for myself (and you if you need it).
Thank you for reading!
Until next time,
Stephanie
About me: I'm Stephanie Grant, a born-and-bred ATLien and the writer behind this newsletter. I’m also a content creator for the food and beverage industry and one of the hosts of the award-winning Good Beer Hunting podcast. In 2023, I launched The Share Community, a digital space for women and non-binary people of color who want to advance their career in the beer industry. You can also find more of my work on YouTube and Instagram.
That’s unfortunate about the bill but, congratulations to you! Cheers!