Sen. Dodd: UC Davis Wine Sales Bill Clears Committee

SACRAMENTO – Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, announced today his legislation to allow UC Davis to sell wine made by viticulture and enology students, generating funds for the university during uncertain financial times caused by the coronavirus pandemic, has cleared a key committee.

“In years past, the school would simply dump the wine crafted by these promising young vintners,” Sen. Dodd said. “It seemed like a waste then and that’s especially true today. With all the challenges facing the university system, we must take every opportunity to support this program so it can be around for future generations.”

UC Davis’ viticulture program was established in 1935 following the repeal of prohibition. It has since become a center for innovation and a model of sustainability. Historically, the university disposes of wine produced by students due to a quirk in state law. Senate Bill 918 continues earlier legislative efforts to change that, allowing the issuance of a sales license to a nonprofit entity to sell up to 20,000 gallons of wine a year.

The bill passed the Senate Governmental Organization committee Tuesday with overwhelming support. Senators resumed committee hearings this week amid social-distancing protocols.

“As we emerge from the COVID pandemic, the department and campus will be facing an uncertain fiscal environment,” said David Block, viticulture department chair. “This bill will give us the opportunity to recover a portion of our winery’s operating costs through wine sales, thus helping us to maintain the excellence of our core missions of teaching, research, and extension.  We very much appreciate Sen. Dodd’s effort and that of his team in shepherding this bill through committee.  The Department of Viticulture and Enology and the California wine and grape industries will certainly be stronger because of his guidance and work.”

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Senator Bill Dodd represents California’s 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Solano, Napa, Sonoma, Yolo, Sacramento, and Contra Costa counties. You can learn more about Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.