Utahns who brew their own beer without a license no longer would be breaking the law under a bill approved by a Senate committee Thursday.

Rep. Christine Johnson's legislation would make it legal for individuals to brew up to 100 gallons for their own consumption. Under existing law, it is a class B misdemeanor to brew at home without a manufacturer's license, which is practically impossible for a home brewer to get.

Sen. Wayne Niederhauser, R-Sandy, expressed discomfort with the bill, pointing to cases where alcohol abuse has exacted a high price and mentioning the recent death of a Utah State University student.

Sen. John Valentine, R-Orem, questioned if brewing beer or wine could produce dangerous pathogens or pose a risk of fire or explosion, but was assured it does not.

"We're dealing with adults and this simply isn't a big deal," said Sen. Steve Urquhart, R-St. George. "That's the argument that persuades me."

The Senate Business and Labor Committee approved the bill and sent it to the full Senate. It already cleared the House.

Robert Gehrke