Kentucky Bourbon Industry

Floor Speech

Mr. BARR. Mr. Speaker, in honor of National Bourbon Day, I rise to celebrate Kentucky's signature spirit.

Kentucky's signature bourbon industry has enjoyed significant growth domestically and abroad, creating billions of dollars in economic activity and over 9,000 jobs, including thousands in the legendary distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Unlike vodka or gin, bourbon is required by law to be stored for at least 2 years in charred white oak barrels. However, bourbon distillers are unable to deduct their expenses during that unique aging process, placing them at a competitive disadvantage in the global marketplace.

This week, I introduced a bipartisan Aged Distilled Spirits Competitiveness Act, which would amend the Tax Code to fix this inequality and help level the playing field for Kentucky's signature bourbon industry.

American products can successfully compete with any in the world. This House is working overtime to enact policies that will promote American competitiveness, remove barriers to job creation, and spur this Nation's economy. I am confident that, with the right tax policy, we will produce even more growth and job creation for the people of Kentucky.

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