The Senate this week unanimously passed Senate Bill 917 by Senator John Laird, a measure to expand opportunities for small winemakers to sell wine and offer tastings at certified farmers’ markets. The bill now heads to the Assembly for consideration.

“California’s wineries are hurting, and SB 917 delivers real relief,” said Laird. “I’m proud to see this bill pass the Senate – cutting red tape, opening new markets, and helping small producers get their products directly to consumers.”

SB 917 modernizes existing law governing Type 79 farmers market wine permits to better reflect today’s wine economy and help small producers reach new consumers.

Under current law, winemakers may only sell wine at farmers markets if it is produced exclusively from “estate-grown” grapes, meaning all grapes must be grown on-site. This requirement excludes many small and boutique wineries that responsibly source grapes from California growers. In addition, existing law limits instructional tastings to only one Type 79 permit holder per farmers market, regardless of market size or capacity.

SB 917 would allow non-estate wineries to sell wine at farmers markets, ensuring more equitable access for small producers and giving local market operators greater flexibility to determine participation. The bill also encourages consumers to support locally made wine, strengthening small businesses and regional economies.

Supporters say the bill will provide much-needed relief for small, family-owned wineries and strengthen connections between producers and local communities.

“For small, family-owned wineries, the ability to connect directly with consumers in our local communities isn’t just a marketing opportunity—it is an economic lifeline,” said GinaLisa Tamayo, Board President of Family Winemakers of California. “By removing outdated barriers and modernizing the rules for farmers market access, we are creating a more equitable playing field that allows small and mid-sized producers to tell their stories, build loyal relationships, and thrive. We applaud the Senate for recognizing the necessity of this bill, and we look forward to working with our partners in the Assembly to bring this common-sense reform across the finish line.”

“California’s wine industry is deeply rooted in our small, local, and generational wine growers,” said Michael Miiller, Director of Government Relations for the California Association of Winegrape Growers. “In making farmers’ markets more accessible, SB 917 cultivates that local connection between the grower, the winemaker, and the community. We thank Senator Laird for his leadership in the Senate and look forward to the bill advancing in the Assembly.”