Alabama ABC Board proposes new rule for beer drinkers

Alabama alcohol regulators want to know a little more about those Yellowhammer beer drinkers.

The Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board is considering a new rule that would require breweries and brewpubs to collect the name, address, age, phone number and date of birth from anyone who purchases beer at a brewery for off-premise consumption.

Members of Free the Hops — a grassroots organization created in support of specialty, craft beer in Alabama — are now speaking out, saying the new rule could infringe on consumer privacy.

“As nonsensical as it might seem, this rule would essentially empower the ABC Board to come to an individual’s house to confirm his or her purchase of a six pack of beer,” Nick Hudson, president of Free the Hops said in a statement. “One can’t help but ask, why? The members of Free the Hops fully oppose this proposed rule. It represents an unprecedented, unnecessary, and overreaching invasion of privacy. It is something that unfairly targets beer consumers, but also, frankly, has frightening implications for everyone.”

The proposed rule follows a law from House Bill 176, which took effect June 1. The law allows the state’s craft breweries to sell six packs, growlers and large bottles of beer directly to consumers. Prior to the bill’s passage, Alabama was the only state that banned such sales.

The board is now seeking public comment on the regulations through Sept. 7. Interested persons may present their views in writing to the Administrative Procedures Secretary, Alabama ABC Board, 2715 Gunter Park Drive West, Montgomery, Alabama 36109, or via email at admin@abc.alabama.gov.