Albany, N.Y.—Small changes in state regulations may be more important than they seem at first glance. New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo recognized this when he signed Senate Bill S04143 on July 22. “This bill,” he stated, “is a huge boost for wineries across the state. Reducing the regulatory burdens on farm wineries will allow them to continue to thrive as a key tourism, agricultural and economic engine for our state.” The bill’s provisions were the result of recommendations made in December 2008 to the commissioner of the Department of Agriculture and Markets by some 20 industry members of the New York State Wine Grape Task Force. When the task force was convened, it was asked to find ways to enhance the business climate for New York state’s wine industry. Read more at: Copyright © Wines & Vines