The legal, regulatory, and policy landscape of the alcohol manufacturing industry is changing on a daily basis. As the owner of a brewery or distillery, it is critically important to not only stay abreast of these changes, but to have voice in them. The following are four suggestions on how to integrate yourself into the political process.

1. Consider joining a national trade association like the Brewers Association or the American Distilling Institute. If your state offers a similar trade association or guild, join it as well. If your state does not offer such, consider starting a trade association or guild with other brewery or distillery owners in your state or region.
2. State law governs a considerable degree of the alcohol manufacturing industry. It is important to engage with those individuals responsible for legislative and policy efforts in your particular state. Invite your statewide elected officials, state legislators, mayors, and city council members to your brewery or distillery and begin a dialogue with them.
3. Inform your statewide elected officials, state legislators, mayors, and city council members on the alcohol manufacturing industry. Explain to them what sort of financial investment has been made in your community and how many people your business employs from the community.
4. Let your statewide elected officials, state legislators, mayors, and city council members know what laws and ordinances are necessary to make your brewery or distillery competitive.