Here's one for the beer lovers. The Legislature is considering a bill that would allow growler sales at liquor stores.

Intended to help smaller breweries get their product to a wider market, the bill would allow stores to fill growlers from kegs – as long as the beer isn't already available in bottles or cans.

When it came up for discussion in the House Committee on Commerce and Regulatory Reform Wednesday evening, members of Minnesota's influential liquor lobby lined up to support the legislation.

"Craft brewing is growing by leaps and bounds in Minnesota," said Minnesota Licensed Beverage Association lobbyist Joe Bagnoli. "You could almost say we are the epicenter."

Jennifer Schoenzeit, whose family has owned the Minneapolis–based Zipp's Liquors for half a century, said her business would love to be able to offer rare beers – little-known Minnesota microbrews or $300 kegs from Europe – but would have a hard time selling an entire keg to a customer. Being able to fill growler jugs a few days a week would give the store and its customers more access and choice, she said.

The growler bill has its critics. Brewers are concerned about quality control. Merchants are worried about the equipment costs it would take to stock and sterilize the reusable growler jugs.

Jason Alvey, owner of the Four Firkins specialty beer store in St. Louis Park, told the committee he'd be happier if he could sell growlers of all types of beers -- including the more popular brands that are available in cans and bottles.

In the end, the growler bill was set aside for inclusion in the omnibus liquor bill the legislature will consider later in the session.