“The state is currently working on a position statement for this bill,” said Joshua Swift, Forsyth County’s health director. “Facilities currently under our regulation would continue as is and would not allow dogs back in bars if they chose to maintain their permit.

“However, if currently regulated facilities meet the definition of a ‘brewery’ and do not prepare food on the premises,” Swift said, “they could request the permit to be revoked and the facility would be exempt from our regulation, allowing dogs (and cats) wherever they want.”

Dan Rossow, the taproom manager for Wise Man Brewing on North Main Street in downtown Winston-Salem, said Tuesday that “we look forward to welcoming dogs back into our taproom on Sept. 1, though we are in the process of developing a list of rules to make sure that their reintroduction into our space goes as smoothly as possible.”

SB290 also gives distilleries the same serving privileges as wineries and craft breweries, while reducing regulation on out-of-state sales.

“Distilleries are expanding North Carolina’s reputation for craftsmanship and drawing visitors to cities and towns across our state,” Cooper said in a statement. “This bill will help small businesses continue to thrive.”