The Shutdown’s Nearing an End. Now What?

After weeks of uncertainty, the federal government is (almost) finally back in business and that means the TTB and other key agencies are, too. For cideries, this is the moment to shake off the disruption, check in on delayed approvals, and get your product plans back on track.

The American Cider Association (ACA) has continued to stay in touch with Hill offices throughout the shutdown to make sure the voice of cider was still being heard. Now that things are moving again, offices are far less distracted and listening. Which means this is the time for cidermakers across the country to speak up and make sure Congress understands how federal policy impacts your business and your growers.

Here are a few steps to help you get back up to speed—and plug into the national cider conversation while it matters most:

Now is the Time to Use Your Voice

Lawmakers are turning their attention to appropriations before the end of the year, and now is when your voice has the most impact.

We’re calling on everyone in the cider community to join our Do Gooder campaign and send a quick message to your Congressional representative about the Bubble Bill—a key piece of legislation that supports small producers and the farmers they work with. It takes less than a minute – click the link, enter your address, press send. 

Do Gooder Link to Email Your Reps

A personal note from a constituent cidermaker goes further than you might think. Even just a handful of messages can help move the needle and keep cider in the conversation on Capitol Hill. If you’re a cider lover rather than a cidermaker, your voice can help elevate the message from the cideries you love.

Check on Your TTB Filings

With the TTB reopening, the agency is now working through its backlog of label and formula approvals. If you have pending applications, log in and confirm their status.

If anything was returned or expired during the shutdown, resubmit as soon as possible and prioritize what’s most urgent for your production schedule.

Reassess Your Production and Release Schedule

A temporary freeze can throw even the best-laid plans off course. Take a fresh look at your seasonal releases, packaging timelines, and distributor communication. If your new ciders were caught in the delay, use this moment to reimagine your launch strategy. Perhaps pair a release with a taproom event or local collaboration to generate excitement?

Stay Visible in Your Community:

Your customers are always ready to support you. Host a cider release, organize a small tasting, or simply share what’s new at your cidery. Keeping your story front and center helps the public, and policymakers, understand the role cider plays in local economies and agriculture.