FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Historic Legislation Signed: New Jersey Establishes Dedicated License for Cideries and Meaderies

Somerdale, NJ — Today marks a defining moment for craft fermentation in New Jersey. Legislation creating a dedicated license for cideries and meaderies has officially been signed into law, establishing a clear and long-overdue legal framework for producers like us. What once existed in regulatory gray space now has formal recognition under state statute.

The journey began with Senate Bill No. 746 (S746), pre-filed for the 2016–2017 legislative session to create a specific license category for hard cider and mead producers. While S746 did not pass in its original form, its provisions were incorporated into Assembly Bill No. 3351 (A3351), which moved forward successfully. A3351 passed the Assembly on November 21, 2016, and the Senate on March 13, 2017. Today, with the Governor’s signature, it becomes law as P.L. 2017, c. 80.

The newly enacted law formally creates a license for the manufacture and sale of hard cider and mead in New Jersey. It allows license holders to produce up to 50,000 barrels of hard cider and 250,000 gallons of mead annually, and grants on-site privileges including consumption, sales, and sampling. The license is available to holders of a limited brewery, restricted brewery, or plenary winery license—bringing clarity and structure to an evolving segment of the craft beverage industry.

This legislation represents more than a regulatory update. It acknowledges the growth of modern cider and mead production and creates a pathway for innovation, expansion, and responsible operation within the state. It provides legitimacy to producers who have worked to define this space and ensures future entrepreneurs have a clear route forward.

Today’s signing is a milestone not just for us, but for the broader New Jersey craft community. The foundation is now in place. The next chapter begins now.