Free the Grapes: HR5034 Hurts Wineries

by Shona Milne on April 21, 2010

It seems that wholesalers and states are arguing that the current three tier system of alcohol is under attack. If this system is strengthened it could result in making it more difficult for wineries to ship directly to consumers. Apparently, wholesalers and state regulators argue that the three-tier system is under attack and that we will face an alcohol epidemic is something is not done.

angrygrapeThe three-tier system is the system for distributing alcoholic beverages which was set up after the repeal of Prohibition. The tiers are producers, distributors, and retailers. The premise is that the producer must sell to a distributor who then must sell to the retailer and only retailers may sell to the end consumer.

Free the Grapes has more information on the details of the bill. They have information on how to contact your representatives and what is being said by the wine industry on this issue.

Anyone local comments on this bill? I’d love to know your thoughts.

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