Brewers battle over who can distribute beer in Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Tensions between the emerging craft beer industry and one of the world’s largest brewers have erupted into a regulatory fight about who can distribute beer in Kentucky.

Anheuser-Busch owns two distributors in Kentucky and is attempting to buy more. But independent brewers are concerned the brewing giant will use their distribution power to not market their products to state consumers.

Thursday, a House committee approved a bill that would require Anheuser-Busch to sell its two distributors and ban it and other brewers from purchasing more. Anheuser-Busch says the bill could lead to the loss of some 200 jobs. Independent brewers argue the businesses would continue after they are sold.

Anheuser-Busch officials noted their Louisville distributor has not impeded the rise of craft brewers in that market.

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