THE HOUSE PASSES A DIRECT SHIPPING BILL IN KANSAS

A bill allowing direct wine shipments to consumers and wine sales at the Kansas State Fair was passed yesterday by the House. According to local news sources, the decision came down to a last minute vote change by Rep. Mark Treaster from “no” to “yes” which pushed the vote from 63-62. Lawmakers were apparently worried that minors would have a much easier time accessing alcohol illegally with doorstep deliveries. However, the decision to allow fair vendors to sell strong beer and wine was not a major concern because lawmakers were assured that alcohol would not undercut the family atmosphere. Although the bill has passed through the House and Senate, a conference committee must work out the differences between the two legislative bodies before it is sent to the Governor.