The bill modifies delivery rules for wine shipped directly to consumers by alcohol beverage shipper licensees (i.e., wineries shipping wine).
Key change: Delivery drivers must not leave wine shipments unattended (e.g., on a doorstep).
The driver must check the recipient's ID to confirm:
The person receiving the wine is the intended recipient.
The recipient is 21 or older.
The recipient is not visibly intoxicated.
Effective Date
Becomes law 90 days after adjournment of the 2025 General Assembly session, unless a referendum petition is filed.
If a petition is filed and the measure is referred to voters, it only takes effect if approved in the November 2026 election.
Purpose
This bill is intended to strengthen oversight and safety around direct-to-consumer alcohol shipments, prevent underage access, and ensure accountability in home deliveries.
Summary
In 2024, Senate Bill 24-231 authorized the state licensing authority
to issue an alcohol beverage shipper license when the liquor enforcement division has sufficient money to administer and enforce the alcohol beverage shipper license. While no alcohol beverage shipper licenses have been issued, with respect to future licensees, the bill removes the requirement that a driver delivering vinous liquors on behalf of an alcohol beverage shipper licensee check the recipient's identification to ensure that the individual accepting delivery is the individual intended to receive the product.
