Wisconsin Senate Bill SB130

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

The face-to-face requirement for retail sales of alcohol beverages and remote orders for the sale of alcohol beverages to be delivered or picked up on retail licensed premises. (FE)

Impact

The legislation aims to streamline regulations governing how alcohol is sold, particularly through remote delivery and pickup methods. One key aspect of SB130 is the prohibition against municipalities from imposing additional restrictions on such sales, thereby creating a more uniform sales environment across the state. Retailers would also be required to obtain a specific alcohol delivery permit issued by the Department of Revenue, ensuring compliance with the new sales framework. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance convenience for consumers while establishing clear guidelines for retailer compliance.

Summary

Senate Bill 130 is primarily concerned with the regulation of alcohol sales in Wisconsin. It broadly enables alcohol beverage retailers to accept online and telephone orders for delivery or pickup at designated locations associated with the retailer, thus modernizing the sales processes for alcohol beverages. This bill not only facilitates delivery but also stipulates that if customers are picking up orders, the sale is considered complete when they take possession of the beverages at the retailer's premises, regardless of payment timing. Notably, this transition to remote ordering could significantly impact how retailers operate in response to changing consumer preferences and market trends.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the bill has faced scrutiny over concerns about underage alcohol delivery, as it imposes stringent requirements for age verification during delivery. The bill delineates that delivery services would be liable for violations if they deliver to underage persons, while also providing a defense for retailers if customer assertions of age are made during the ordering process. This aspect has raised discussions regarding responsibilities among delivery services and the potential for regulatory complexities that could arise from these new rules.