Maine House votes to “free the grapes”

Legislation would allow Mainers to buy wine from other states

 

AUGUSTA – The Maine House of Representatives gave initial approval to a proposal from Rep. Melissa Walsh Innes, D-Yarmouth, that would allow consumers to buy wine from out-of-state vineyards and producers and have it shipped to their homes.  Innes’ bill received overwhelming support during Thursday’s vote, with 107 House members from both parties voting to approve the legislation. 

 

If the bill is passed by the Maine Senate, Maine wine consumers could order wine from both in-state and out-of-state vineyards, provided that the vineyard has a license to do business with Maine residents.  Wine shipped to consumers would have to be conspicuously labeled, and could not be delivered to a recipient without a valid photo i.d. that proves the consumer is over 21 years of age.

 

Nearly 40 other states already allow the direct shipment of wine to resident consumers.  Innes’ proposal is estimated to generate at least $100,000 in sales tax revenues during the first year, according to the Maine Legislature’s Office of Fiscal and Program Review.

 

“Not only does this legislation increase choice for consumers who choose to order a special wine on occasion, it allows Maine to earn additional and much-needed revenue,” said Innes.  “Allowing consumers to order wine should not adversely impact Maine small businesses, and Maine vineyards would have access to new markets.  I’m very pleased the House supported this bill so strongly.”

 

The legislation would also permit Maine wineries to export wine to consumers who live out-of-state, which is not allowed under current law.  Under the existing law, only wholesalers may purchase wine from an out-of-state source. 

 

Similar legislation is under consideration in five other states this year.  LD 1008, An Act to Increase Consumer Choice in Wine, may be considered by the Maine Senate in the coming days.