HB2620 Summary

• Expands the definition of "wine" under Illinois Liquor Control Act to include beverages made from honey (mead) and clarifies that wine includes fortified beverages.

• Creates new "Class 3 Brewer" license category allowing manufacturers of up to 465,000 gallons annually (max 155,000 per single location) with limited direct-to-retail sales privileges.

• Establishes "beer showcase permit" allowing distributors and class 3 brewers to display and sell beer at temporary events (1-15 days) with purchase limits of 96 fluid ounces per person.

• Authorizes cooperative purchasing agreements for retail licensees to collectively buy wine/spirits with quantity discount protections, including minimum surety bond requirements and State Commission oversight.

• Permits retail licensees with multiple locations to transfer wine/spirits inventory between their own locations under specified conditions (monthly limits and carrier requirements).