a. The distribution and sale of malt alcoholic beverages in this State vitally affects the general economy and revenues of the State, as well as the public interest and public welfare.

b. It is appropriate to recognize the guiding characteristics regarding the distribution of malt alcoholic beverages to foster responsible industry practices involving the moderate and responsible use of these beverages, to provide a framework for the malt alcohol beverage industry that recognizes and encourages the beneficial aspects of competition, to provide trade stability, to maintain the three-tier distribution system, to protect the interests of the consumer regarding product quality and freshness and to achieve all facets of the legislatively declared public policy of this State as set forth in section 4 of P.L.1985, c.258 (C. 33:1-3.1).

c. It is therefore fitting and proper to regulate the business relationship between brewers and wholesalers of malt alcoholic beverages and set forth their respective responsibilities to further the public policy of this State and protect beer wholesalers from unreasonable demands and requirements by brewers, while devoting sufficient efforts and resources to the distribution and sale of malt alcoholic beverages.

d. The Legislature also finds and declares that nothing in sections 1 through 9 of this act shall be construed in any manner whatsoever to apply to wholesalers of wines and spirits and that sections 1 through 9 of the act shall be strictly limited to the responsibilities of brewers and wholesalers. But section 10 of this act shall apply to wholesalers of beer, wine and spirits alike.

L.2005,c.243,s.2.