Even at the lower estimate, Nolan Smith, board president, said the nearly $500,000 that will stay in the state as a result is significant, and unlike a recent change in state law that helped larger breweries, Smith said this bill supports all businesses.

"This is something that every brewer in Montana, big or small, small town or big town, will see immediate benefits from," said Smith, also an owner of Philipsburg Brewing Co.

In a blog post Wednesday, the brewers association thanked U.S. Sens. Jon Tester, a Democrat, and Steve Daines, a Republican, for being among the co-sponsors of the craft beverage act.

"Our senators understand that with 75 breweries creating jobs and economic growth in communities across our state, Montana craft beer is good for Montana's economy," Smith said in the statement.

Tester opposed the larger GOP tax plan and described it as "one of the sh----est bills" to come before the Senate. But he sponsored the craft beverage bill as a path to economic development: "These small businesses use Montana grain to make world-class beer and booze."

Daines has also touted breweries in the state: “Montana is home to a vibrant craft brewing industry that supports our robust barley growers and creates more good-paying jobs.”