CAPS THREATENING TO BOTTLE WINE SHIPMENT BILLS

Yesterday, the Florida House unanimously approved HB 247, sponsored by Rep. Ellyn Bogdanoff, that will not allow wine producers making more than 250,000 gallons a year to deliver directly to residents. The bill must now go on to the Senate for approval. A separate Senate bill (SB 282) ready for floor consideration does not include a cap, allowing any winemaker to ship to Florida.


Some lawmakers feel that implementing a delivery cap will help prevent underage drinkers from accessing the larger, less expensive wine brands such as E & J Gallo. HB 247 would also create a tax collecting system and provide guidelines for an orderly market. Others, however, think capping the wine bill infringes on free trade. The key difference between the two bills could keep Florida legislators struggling to compromise for many months.