HOH isn’t really sure what we think of financial regulatory reform or climate change legislation, but we’ll raise a glass in support of H.R. 1297, a measure “supporting the goals and ideals of American Craft Beer Week.”

[IMGCAP(1)]Introduced on Thursday by Rep. Betsy Markey (D-Colo.), the resolution toasts the craft beer industry, which generates $3 billion in wages and benefits annually and produced 9 million barrels of beer in 2009. The measure notes that craft brewers operate smaller breweries than their corporate competitors but “produce high-quality beers using traditional brewing techniques.”

“American craft brewers increase awareness of the differences in the flavor, aroma, color, alcohol content, body, and other complex variables of beer, as well as historic brewing traditions dating back to colonial America,” the bill reads, making sure to add: “American craft brewers champion the message of responsible enjoyment to their customers and work with their communities to prevent alcohol abuse and underage drinking.”

The thirst-quenching weeklong celebration is scheduled for May 17-23. And take note: Make sure to read the Declaration of Beer Independence, which mandates that beer lovers have certain inalienable rights, “among these life, liberty and the pursuit of hops and malt.”

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