New York easing restrictions on craft beer, wine

New York is eliminating some restrictions on craft beer, wine and spirits producers to encourage the growing interest in locally made alcoholic beverages.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Thursday signed into law a bill that relaxes several regulations to reduce fees on small manufacturers looking to increase production. The new rules will also ease rules on tastings and allow farm distilleries to operate additional retail outlets.

Cuomo also announced $3 million in grants for marketing locally produced wine, beer, cider and spirits and promotion of wine trails, beer events and other tourism activities related to the state's craft alcohol industry.

The state says the number of businesses using local ingredients to make beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages has more than doubled since 2011.