TZG’s Eric Orlando Testifies Before the Senate Economic Growth Committee as Senate Bill 3970 Advances
At The Zita Group, we love seeing local ideas come to life. On Monday, February 10, 2025, the Senate Economic Growth (SEG) Committee took a big step forward, unanimously advancing Senate Bill 3970—sponsored by Senator Nilsa Cruz-Perez (D-5) —to give New Jersey’s craft beverage industry a well-deserved boost.
At the hearing, Eric Orlando, TZG’s Executive VP and Government Affairs Director for the Brewers Guild of New Jersey, spoke in support of the bill. He highlighted how this win-win initiative not only fuels NJ’s booming craft beverage scene but also strengthens relationships between local producers and retailers.
Read Eric’s full testimony below:
Understanding Bill S-3970
At the heart of S-3970 is the proposed “Jersey Craft Beverage Retailer Promotion and Grant Program,” offering incentives for bars, restaurants and liquor stores to showcase NJ craft beverages.
Here’s what that means:
- Retailer Certification: Local retailers can earn the title of “Certified Jersey Craft Alcohol Beverage Retailer,” helping customers easily spot and support local-focused spots.
- Financial Support: Annual grants of up to $2,500 per retailer help bars, restaurants and liquor stores sell, store and promote NJ’s local brews and spirits.
- Industry Reinvestment: The program will be funded by a portion of the tax dollars generated by breweries, distilleries, cideries and meaderies on each gallon of product they produce annually—ensuring that the industry’s success fuels growth at the local level.
Why It Matters
Eric emphasized that this bill isn’t just about funding—it’s about fostering stronger NJ industry connections. On one hand, the bill supports our booming craft brewing industry; on the other, it provides tangible support to local retailers, potentially channeling between $200,000 and $300,000 in grants each year to help 100–200 retailers thrive. This means more local options for consumers and a boost to the state’s economy.
After the hearing, S-3970 was referred to the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee for further consideration.
About The Zita Group
The Zita Group is a woman-owned government and public affairs firm, both founded and led by Patrizia “Trish” Zita. Our bipartisan, experienced team of strategic consultants is widely respected by elected, appointed and government officials of both parties across New Jersey’s political landscape. We provide our clients unique insights into the decision-making process at the highest levels. We bring to bear credible working relationships with executive branch officials, legislators, and staff. Our team’s effectiveness has been demonstrated again and again by the results we achieve for our clients.
