FL S0470

Removes prohibition on beer samplings at off-premises vendors and authorizes malt beverage tastings on licensed premises of vendors selling by the drink or in sealed containers meeting specified requirements.

Tastings permitted on premises of vendors selling alcoholic beverages by the drink, or on off-premises vendors with at least 10,000 square feet of interior floor space or package stores licensed under section 565.02(1)(a).

Tastings limited to 576 ounces total volume per event, must use tasting cups of 3.5 ounces or less for off-premises vendors, and manufacturers/distributors must pay all excise taxes and return unconsumed beverages to inventory.

Prohibits manufacturers, distributors, importers, or their agents from paying vendors or providing free/reduced-cost beverages to authorize tastings, and prohibits naming vendors in tasting advertisements.

Clarifies that manufacturers, distributors, importers, and brand owners may conduct tastings but cannot engage in cooperative advertising with vendors; effective July 1, 2014.