Schumer proposes Bubble Tax Modernization Act to aid cideries

SIDNEY, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – Senator Chuck Schumer was in Sidney this week to pop the bubble tax and relieve the tax burden on cideries brewing bubbly drinks.

The Senate Majority Leader visited Awestruck Cider to announce his new, proposed legislation that would eliminate a federal tax on ciders that increases the cost per gallon based on the amount of fizz.

Schumer explained that for years, cideries get taxed more than beer and hard seltzers because of their amount of carbonation. He says his proposed, Bubble Tax Modernization Act would help cider makers add more fruits and bubbles to their drinks.

“Customers want fruit flavors. They want sparkling bubbles and Awestruck wants to make them. The Federal Government should not be getting in their way. Changing this law would be a win-win. Boosting cideries and our Upstate New York farmers, vineyards and orchards. And by the way, that’s the other place it wins. If they can make more cider guess who benefits? Our apple growers, our cherry growers,” said Schumer.

Schumer says apple and pear ciders are taxed around 23 cents to about a $1.07 per gallon. But if the bubble tax is triggered, by adding other fruit or bubbles, it can bring the cost up to $3.40 per gallon. He has proposed the bill in the Senate and expects it to pass.

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