Legislation to help boost the growing craft brewing industry in the state was signed Wednesday by Governor Andrew Cuomo. The measure, sponsored in the state Senate by Patty Ritchie (R-Heuvelton),is designed to boost tourism, reestablish New York farmers as leaders in thehops production, and help create new jobs.

Ritchie was not at the bill signing, which was happening while she was in Potsdam meeting with officials about the Tuesday storm there. Sen. Jos. Griffo (R-Rome), who was at the signing, came to Potsdam later that day.

The bill includes tax breaks and other incentives that will “strengthen this growing industry, while at the same time increasing demand for locally-grown farm products, creating jobs, expanding industry-related tourism and providing a boost to our state’s economy,” Ritchie.

Similar to winery operations now permitted on farms, licensed farmers will be able to craft-brew “New York” beer with specific amounts of locally grown ingredients, gradually increasing from 20 percent to 90 percent by 2024. It will also permits sales of “New York cider, ”off-premises sales, and waives some previously imposed fees.

118th District Assemblywoman Addie Russell (D-Theresa), who supported the bill in the Assembly, said, “We have a great, budding craft beer industry in New York and this new law will help expand production and create new jobs for our hardworking families.” “Our small businesses, like craft breweries and farms, are the economic engines that drive the North Country and they deserve all the help we cangive them so that they can continue to grow and thrive,” Russell said