Bill > H230

This bill establishes a framework for the direct shipment of wine to consumers in the Commonwealth, allowing licensed wineries to sell and ship wine directly to residents who are at least 21 years old for personal use. To do this, wineries must obtain a "direct shipment license" from the commission, which requires authorization from their home state, an application, and an annual fee of $100 per winery, with separate licenses needed for affiliates. Licensed shippers must report monthly shipments, pay all applicable taxes including excise and sales taxes as if the sale occurred at the delivery location, and allow for audits by the commission and the department of revenue. The bill also clarifies that parcel delivery services can transport wine from licensed wineries, farmer-wineries, and farmer-breweries, provided that packages are clearly labeled as containing alcohol and require a signature from someone 21 or older, with delivery personnel verifying identification. Additionally, the bill introduces a permit for "alcoholic beverages experts," defined as individuals recognized for their written evaluations of alcoholic beverages, allowing them to receive wine samples for evaluation and analysis, provided they submit credentials for approval and pay an annual fee of $100. Violations of direct shipping rules, especially those involving underage recipients, carry escalating fines and potential prohibition from direct shipping, while engaging in unauthorized direct shipping is considered a deceptive act. The commission is mandated to issue an annual report on direct shipment licenses, violations, and enforcement.