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Bill

SB 788

Alcoholic beverage control; payment of excise tax on beer, wine coolers, and wine, penalties.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Russet Perry

SB 788 restructures Virginia's excise tax payment requirements and penalties for beer, wine, and wine coolers to strengthen revenue collection and compliance enforcement.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 904 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · SB 788

Legislative bill overview

SB 788 modifies Virginia's excise tax collection and enforcement mechanisms for alcoholic beverages including beer, wine coolers, and wine. The bill establishes new payment procedures, penalties for non-compliance, and potentially adjusts tax rates or collection timelines for these products.

Why is this important

Excise taxes on alcohol generate significant state revenue and are used to fund public health, education, and regulatory programs. Changes to payment requirements and penalties directly affect both beverage producers/distributors and the state budget, while also influencing product pricing for consumers.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax burden timing: Whether accelerated payment schedules place cash flow burdens on small distributors versus large corporations differently
  • Penalty severity: The level of penalties for late or missed payments and whether they are proportionate or punitive in nature
  • Compliance complexity: Whether new payment procedures create administrative barriers for smaller businesses or retailers
  • Revenue impact: Whether stricter enforcement and penalties increase state revenue or potentially reduce it through reduced compliance

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

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