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Bill

SSB 1147

A bill for an act relating to the sale and distribution of beer, including by providing for the direct shipment of beer, levying a barrel tax, providing fees, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.

2025-2026 Regular Session

SSB 1147 allows direct shipment of beer to consumers aged 21+, boosting access and sales for breweries while enforcing safety and compliance regulations.

Subcommittee recommends passage.
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Bill Summary · SSB 1147

Summary of SSB 1147: Direct Shipment of Beer and Barrel Tax Legislation

Bill Number: SSB 1147
Introduced On: February 18, 2025
Status: Subcommittee recommends passage
Classification: Proposed bill
Subject Areas: Alcoholic beverages, beer barrel taxes, breweries, fees, jurisdiction, retail sales

Purpose and Intent

SSB 1147 aims to regulate the sale and distribution of beer by introducing provisions for the direct shipment of beer to consumers. The bill seeks to modernize the beer distribution framework, impose a barrel tax, establish fees, and outline penalties for non-compliance. The intent is to create a more streamlined process for consumers to receive beer directly while ensuring that regulatory measures are in place to maintain safety and compliance.

Key Provisions

  1. Direct Shipment of Beer:

    • Consumers aged 21 and older may receive beer shipped directly to them for personal use, not for resale.
    • All beer shipped must be registered with the federal Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau and produced on the premises of a licensed beer direct shipper.
  2. Labeling Requirements:

    • Containers of beer shipped must be clearly labeled with warnings indicating that the package contains alcohol and requires a signature from a person aged 21 or older upon delivery.
  3. Shipping Regulations:

    • Shipments must be conducted by holders of an alcoholic beverage carrier permit.
    • Direct shipment does not require a refund value for beverage container control purposes.
  4. Barrel Tax:

    • Beer direct shipper permit holders must remit a barrel tax on all beer shipped, whether within the state or out of state, at the rate specified in existing legislation.
    • Payments are to be made in accordance with specified timelines and methods, with penalties for late payments.
  5. Jurisdiction and Compliance:

    • Permit holders consent to the jurisdiction of state agencies for enforcement of the bill's provisions.
    • The Department of Revenue may audit shipping records upon request.
  6. Penalties for Violations:

    • Violations of the provisions outlined in the bill may result in civil penalties and other general penalties as defined in existing law.

Impact

  • Breweries and Distributors: The bill will affect breweries and distributors by allowing them to ship beer directly to consumers, potentially increasing sales and market reach.
  • Consumers: Consumers will benefit from greater access to a variety of beers, including those from out-of-state breweries, enhancing their purchasing options.
  • Regulatory Agencies: The bill will empower state agencies to enforce compliance, ensuring that all shipments adhere to safety and legal standards.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 18, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Commerce Committee.
  • February 26, 2025: Subcommittee meeting scheduled.
  • March 3, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage of the bill.

This summary provides an overview of SSB 1147, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on stakeholders involved in the beer distribution industry.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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