JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
Beer drinkers across the state were toasting to stronger spirits Sunday.
A number of celebrations were held across the state, including Hal and Mal's in Jackson.
This is the first day beer with 8% alcohol by weight or 10% by volume can be sold in the state.
Several Breweries had shipments brought into Mississippi Sunday morning. Thus far, more than one hundred beers have been approved to sell.
The new law took years of lobbying and faced, at times, fierce opposition. Supporters say the larger selection will help tourism and economic development.
"What we've been able to do with the passage of this legislation is be able to increase revenue, tax revenue, in the state without raising anybody's taxes. You've also got a situation where people now have access to products they've never had access to before," said Todd Parkman, V.P. of Raise Your Pints Mississippi.
Mississippi's previous limit was 5 % alcohol by weight.
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