Wisconsin Assembly approves sweeping liquor law overhaul bill.

The Wisconsin Assembly has passed a comprehensive bill to update and streamline the state's liquor laws, affecting every level of the alcohol industry. The bill creates a new division within the state Department of Revenue to oversee and enforce the laws, and regulates the licensing, producing, selling, and distribution of beer, wine, and liquor. The bill also creates a new statewide bartender license, allows for expanded hours at wineries, and permits brew pubs to operate stand-alone retail stores. Wedding barn owners have objected to the new requirements, but supporters say they level the playing field between wedding barns and other venues.