It doesn't get more American than this.
Somewhere in Oregon, a couple of friends start brewing beer in the basement -- just for fun. After a few tries, they invent a beer that doesn't taste like anything else. Say, a dark ale with the smokiness of a porter and the fruitiness of an IPA. (Okay, it's been done before, but not like this!)
Word spreads. Local pubs want to put it on tap. The budding brewers borrow some money and set up shop. They hire help. And, soon enough, they're in business!
It's an all-American small business success story that has played out dozens of times, right here in Oregon's 4th Congressional District, which alone has 26 breweries!
Are you a craft beer fan? Join the conversation and tell me about your favorite beers and breweries on Facebook!
Our nation's craft brewers are a testament to the strength and importance of American small business. These brewers all contribute to the local economy -- employing local people, attracting tourists, and offering good wages and benefits.
Our laws and regulations should encourage these entrepreneurs, not stifle innovation. That's why I founded the bipartisan Small Brewers Caucus in Congress, and why I'm fighting for the Small BREW Act.
Our bill would reduce by 50 percent the federal excise tax on the first 60,000 barrels of beer a small brewer produces. The revenue is covered by a higher rate on barrels produced by big corporate brewers. Helping these small businesses flourish is something we can all get behind!
This year, the annual Craft Brewers Conference is taking place in Portland, which has more breweries than any city in the world.
I'll be speaking about the Small BREW Act and the economic benefits of the beer industry. Be sure to get out and enjoy the many breweries that Oregon has to offer!
Cheers!