All the talk about the general public not noticing the government shutdown is just talk for anyone that hopes to open a winery, brewery, distillery or any other business that requires a TTB approval in the near future. The TTB has shutdown its Permits Online and has given notice that its staff will not be responding to queries, whether via email, telephone or otherwise. This will also impact existing businesses that may want to make a change to their operation, or obtain approvals for labels or formulas.

For more information on the TTB shutdown, click here.

The TTB will continue to collect taxes and pursue criminal violations according to their Shutdown Plan.

The impact on new businesses that have already made a significant capital expenditures, signed a lease, etc., but cannot start operations without a TTB permit, could be catastrophic.