WASHINGTON, D.C. — Thor Cheston, founder of Right Proper Brewing Company, has transformed his passion for beer into a thriving craft brewery business in Washington, D.C. With two operational locations and plans for expansion, the brewery faced uncertainty during the pandemic like many other small businesses.

Proposal Aims to Aid Small Businesses’ Recovery

The proposal in Congress, known as the Creating Hospitality Economic Enhancement for Restaurants and Servers (CHEERS) Act, seeks to provide assistance to small businesses as they navigate the path to recovery. This bipartisan initiative aims to offer tax breaks to establishments investing in energy-efficient draft lines and keg equipment.

Spearheaded by representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL) and Steven Horsford (D-NV), the CHEERS Act enjoys bipartisan support in the House. Representative LaHood emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality sector, which continues to face economic challenges post-pandemic.

Impact on Craft Brewers

For businesses like Right Proper Brewing Company, the passage of the CHEERS Act would be monumental. Despite some recovery in business, craft brewers still experience a significant decline in draft beer sales, with figures down approximately 25% compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Marc Sorini, General Counsel for the Brewers Association, underscores the importance of draft beer sales for the industry’s sustainability. The association, representing over 5,400 brewers and craft beer retailers, views the CHEERS Act as a vital step toward revitalizing the sector.

Urgent Call for Congressional Action

Craft brewers advocate for swift congressional action to pass the CHEERS Act, citing its potential to stimulate the economy and bolster the industry’s recovery efforts. With draft beer’s inherent energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness, support for this legislation holds significant promise for businesses like Right Proper Brewing Company and others across the nation.

As small businesses continue to navigate the challenges brought on by the pandemic, initiatives such as the CHEERS Act offer a beacon of hope for economic revitalization and sustainability.

By Benny Trump

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