AB 1585 (Connolly & Ransom) Continues in the Legislature
May 14, 2026 (Sacramento, CA) — The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) and Family Winemakers of California (FWC) today announced that AB 1585 (Connolly & Ransom), American Wine Truth in Labeling legislation, was approved by the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
AB 1585 would require that any wine labeled “American” and sold or bottled in California be made from 100 percent American-grown winegrapes. This legislation would align the national designation with the same requirement California has long applied to wines labeled “California.”
“Today’s vote is an important step forward for the integrity of American wine, and for every grower, winery, farmworker, and community behind it. The principle is simple: when a bottle says ‘American wine,’ it should mean American grapes. We are grateful to the hundreds of industry members who have championed this cause, and we appreciate the Legislature’s continued engagement as this bill moves forward,” said Natalie Collins, President of the California Association of Winegrape Growers. “AB 1585 is a powerful reminder of what this industry can accomplish when it speaks with one voice.”
“Family wineries have always staked their reputation on honesty — what’s in the bottle and where it comes from. AB 1585 asks only that the word ‘American’ on a wine label mean exactly that,” said GinaLisa Tamayo, Board President of Family Winemakers of California. “California’s legislature continues to put consumers and family producers first, and we are grateful to Assemblymembers Connolly and Ransom for their steadfast leadership in making that possible. We look forward to a yes vote on the Assembly Floor.”
CAWG and FWC thank Assemblymembers Damon Connolly and Rhodesia Ransom for their leadership in authoring this important legislation, as well as the 18 regional wine and grape associations, 11 co-author members of the California Legislature, and more than 400 industry members who submitted letters of support.
Today’s action is another step in a rigorous legislative process that will continue through August. AB 1585 must clear several additional steps, including the Assembly Floor, where the bill heads next for a full vote by the State Assembly in the next two weeks.
About the California Association of Winegrape Growers
CAWG is a statewide nonprofit trade association advocating for California’s winegrape growers to ensure the sustainability of the winegrape industry. CAWG promotes the industry’s long-term success by advancing the adoption of sound public policies and fostering awareness and understanding of winegrape growers’ contributions to the economy, environment, and California communities. Learn more at cawg.org
About Family Winemakers of California
Founded in 1990, Family Winemakers of California is a statewide organization representing the interests of family-owned and independent wineries. With a mission rooted in advocacy, access, and education, FWC continues to champion the needs of independent producers who are the backbone of California’s wine economy. Learn more at familywinemakers.us
