Wisconsin is considering changes to its alcohol industry. Here's what this could mean for consumers, breweries, wineries and more

Republican lawmakers unveiled a plan last week that would overhaul how alcohol is regulated in the Badger State and how laws that govern the industry are enforced. The changes, enshrined in a massive 156-page bill, are the product of years of negotiations prompted by infighting among the beer, wine and spirits industry.

Likely the most visible change will be a potential influx of new beer, wine and other shops tied to alcohol products. Currently, state law bars breweries and other producers to open retail shops if brewing, distilling or other production does not occur on-site. Under the bill, such producers could sell their products without a tap room or production facility on site.

For example, the bill could allow New Glarus Brewing Company to open a retail store where customers could buy Spotted Cow and other New Glarus beers directly from the company, rather than going to a grocery store, bottle shop or tap room.

Another big change consumers may notice is the extension of hours at wineries. Current law bars wineries from staying open past 9 p.m. The bill would allow wineries to stay open until the early morning, like traditional taverns.