Summary Box: Home beer brewers seek law changes
OLD LAWS: Lawmakers across the country are updating laws — some dating back to Prohibition — that govern sharing homemade brews outside the brewer's home. Beer enthusiasts fear the old laws could kill tasting events that draw tourists and generate revenue.
FINE PRINT: At least 17 states have ambiguous brewing laws. Some limit brewers to making beverages for themselves and family members. Others allow house guests to imbibe. And still other states are just coming around to the whole idea.
LATECOMERS: Utah legalized home brewing in 2009 and Oklahoma in 2010. Mississippi and Alabama are the only states that still forbid it.
