Mayor Labrosse, Assembly Members Huttle and Johnson Join Forces with Alementary to Support Bill Allowing Dogs in Breweries

HACKENSACK, NJ — Mayor John Labrosse is partnering with the Alementary Brewery to support a bill pending in the state legislature that would allow patrons of New Jersey breweries to enjoy a cold beer alongside their furry friends. They are being joined in the effort by Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri-Huttle and Assemblyman Gordon Johnson, who both represent Hackensack and who have signed on as Co-Sponsors to Assembly bill A-4264, which would allow dogs in brewery tasting rooms.

“Entrepreneurs like the team at Alementary are breathing new life into cities like Hackensack and bringing people together to enjoy good beer and great company, and I can see no reason why these businesses should be prohibited from allowing customers to bring their dogs with them,” said Mayor Labrosse. “I’m proud that our city is home to two great breweries and I thank our legislators for working to help them succeed by removing this unnecessary regulation.”

The bill allowing dogs in breweries has already passed overwhelmingly in the State Senate, however it has not yet been voted on in the Assembly. Support from Assembly members Vainier-Huttle and Johnson is expected to make a significant difference in building momentum for the bill.

“Craft brewing is fast becoming a growth industry in our state and we should be working to support these exciting businesses, not put unnecessary obstacles in their way,” said Assemblyman Vainieri-Huttle. “This common sense legislation will help attract more customers to local breweries and support the revitalization of cities like Hackensack.”

“Breweries can help attract new residents and businesses to our community and reinvigorate our commercial centers,” said Assemblyman Johnson. “It should be up to the owners of these businesses whether they want to allow dogs or not, and with this bill we will be granting that choice to the entrepreneurs themselves.”

Since opening in 2016 on Voorhis Lane, Alementary has established itself as one of the leaders in New Jersey’s rapidly growing craft beer community. Its tasting room is open Thursday-Sunday, and its beers are available in many local bars, restaurants and liquor stores.

“We want our customers to have the best possible experience when they come visit us, and as dog lovers ourselves inviting them to bring their pets along for the experience seems like a natural fit,” said Michael Roosevelt, PhD, Co-owner and Chief Scientist at Alementary. “I would like to thank Mayor Labrosse, Assemblywoman Vaineri-Huttle and Assemblyman Johnson for standing up for the craft beer industry by supporting this bill and I’m hopeful that we will soon see it signed into law.”