One of the ACA's core functions is to be the voice of cider with regulators and decision-makers. We work to establish changes in D.C. and to collaborate with regional guilds and our members in protecting cider's interests at the state level.
Cider is not wine. Cider is not beer. Yet, cider is taxed like wine and often marketed like beer. The result is a startling lack of parity that negatively impacts the bottom line of cidermakers. We want to do something about that!
Our members identify our policy and regulatory work as one of the most important reasons they join the association. The more members we have, the louder our voice becomes.
2016: The ACA hires Michelle McGrath as Executive Director.
2017: The TTB releases proposed rules for the CIDER Act.
2017: Senator Wyden introduces the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act (CBMTRA) to increase the small producer tax credit and expand credit eligibility to sparkling wines and cider. It passes on a temporary basis.
2018: The ACA joins Wine America, Wine Institute, Beer Institute, Brewers Association, DISCUS, and American Craft Spirits Association as part of the Craft Beverage Coalition, bringing together the beverage sectors to push for the passage of the CBMTRA.
2018: TTB releases Notice 176, a massive proposal regarding the “Modernization of the Labeling and Advertising Regulations for Wine, Distilled Spirits, and Malt Beverages.”
2019: Congress passes a 1-year extension of the CBMTRA. ACA helped mobilize members to engage their members of Congress and ask for their support.
2019: ACA provides comments on Notice 176.
2019: ACA and Headwater Cider host Ways and Means Committee Chair, Richard Neal to meet with cidermakers and discuss the importance of the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act.
2023: ACA hosts Geographic Indicators Summit in Portland, Oregon to create a foundational framework for American Pomological Areas with cider and wine experts from around the country.
2024: ACA speaks alongside Brewers Association, American Craft Spirits Association, and Wine America at the 28th Annual Wine, Beer & Spirits Law National SuperConference to advocate for the policy and regulatory needs of small cider businesses
2024: The ACA submits comments to the TTB in support of 16 oz. and 19.2 oz. standards of fill for cider and wine under 8.5% ABV and advocates for the creation of a streamlined approval pipeline for new standards of fill
2024: U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer of New York introduced the Bubble Tax Modernization Act to the Senate (S.5442) on December 5, 2024. The American Cider Association applauds this as the next step toward carbonation parity which is critical for the future growth of the cider industry.
