Anheuser-Busch tries to block Ohio bill

Measure would block brewers from buying distributors

4/24/2013

COLUMBUS — The world’s largest brewer is trying to stop Ohio from enacting a measure that would prohibit brewers from buying wholesale beer distributors.

That provision was part of a bill that moved quickly through the Legislature last week and is now before Gov. John Kasich.

The Columbus Dispatch reports Kasich was expected to meet today with representatives of Anheuser-Busch InBev before deciding whether he’ll sign the measure.

The brewer contends it didn’t have a chance to comment on the pending measure and says the legislation will affect its investments in Ohio if enacted. The company runs a large brewery in Columbus and employs hundreds of Ohioans.

Legislative leaders say public notice about the measure was provided and it followed the usual legislative procedures.