HB 773

Abstract

Amends the Beer Industry Fair Dealing Act. Expands the list of prohibited conduct under the Act, as it applies to brewers, to include coercing a wholesaler to sign an agreement by threatening to refuse approval for the wholesaler's business; terminating an agreement because the wholesaler fails to agree to a renewal agreement; and presenting an agreement to the wholesaler that grants the brewer the unilateral right to amend the agreement without the wholesaler's consent. Provides that an agreement between a brewer and wholesaler must state and provide that the agreement is governed by the Beer Industry Fair Dealing Act and other matters. Changes the definition of the term "territory" or "sales territory" to mean the exclusive geographic area (rather than the geographical area) of primary sales responsibility designated by the agreement between a wholesaler and brewer for any brand, brands, or brand extensions (rather than brand or brands) of the brewer. Further adds that the "territory" or "sales territory" designated by the agreement may not be designated by address or specific location unless such specific address or location is part of a general and broad territory or sales territory description. Effective immediately.