Massachusetts shoppers would be able to buy craft beers and spirits at farmers markets - but not take those bottles or any other purchases home in a plastic bag - under a bill approved Thursday by the Senate.
An omnibus bill (S 2171) that passed the Senate on a 36-1 vote takes a variety of steps aimed at promoting agriculture in the state.
It includes measures that would allow farmer brewers and distillers to sell their goods at agricultural events and farmers markets; let Department of Conservation and Recreation Land be used for community gardens or temporary public markets in certain circumstances; develop a program supporting veterans working in agriculture; and establish a regulatory framework for off-site raw milk distribution by licensed farmers. The programs in total would cost $1.2 million in the next fiscal year, according to the Senate Ways and Means Committee