If enacted, the new law would mean that Alabamans who make their own beer "will no longer have the fear of arrest hanging over their heads for simply participating in a hobby that is enjoyed by residents of 48 other states," a representative of Right to Brew said in an email.

Home brewing has been growing in popularity along with the public's surge in interest in craft brewing. But the hobby had long been either forbidden or in a legal gray area. It wasn't until 1978 that it became legal under federal law.

The Alabama bill limits how much beer can be produced, and it forbids brewers to sell their beer. It also discourages stockpiling.

"The bill allows 15 gallons to be produced every three months," says Republican Rep. Mac McCutcheon, who introduced the bill, "and there shall be no more than an aggregate amount 15 gallons of beer, mead, cider and wine stored in the home."

Brewers must also keep their beers under the 14 percent alcohol by volume mark.

The Alabama legislation's success was welcomed by the American Homebrewers Association, which has advised state groups of brewers.

"After five years of working with Alabama home brewers to legalize the hobby of home brewing in the state," says AHA Director Gary Glass, "it is gratifying to see the Alabama Legislature finally pass a home-brew bill."

Despite being passed by the state Legislature after Mississippi's bill was approved, Alabama's home-brewing bill may take effect first — the Mississippi legislation is scheduled to take effect this July.

Copyright 2013 NPR.

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Home Brewing: Soon To Be Legal In All 50 States