Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HF526

Introduced
2/20/25  

Caption

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of beer, levying a barrel tax, providing fees, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly HF 57.)

Impact

The bill significantly alters existing Iowa alcohol regulations, primarily affecting sections related to the shipment and taxation of beer. The introduction of the beer direct shipper permit provides a new avenue for manufacturers to reach consumers directly, aligning the state's laws with evolving consumer preferences for home delivery of alcoholic beverages. In addition, the implications of levying a barrel tax on beer subject to direct shipment could impact price structures for consumers and influence the operational strategies of both local brewers and distributors.

Summary

House File 526 aims to facilitate the direct shipment of beer within the state of Iowa and to outside jurisdictions where applicable. It establishes a beer direct shipper permit for manufacturers holding a class A beer permit and a federal brewer's notice, allowing them to sell beer directly to consumers. This bill includes the complete framework for applying for permits, which involves an annual fee of $25. It mandates various compliance measures for shippers to adhere to, ensuring that shipments are made to individuals over the age of 21 and that proper documentation is maintained including proof of age and shipment records.

Contention

Notable discussions surrounding HF526 may arise from its potential impact on local businesses and regulations. Proponents argue that the bill will enhance consumer access to craft and locally brewed beers, potentially boosting sales for Iowa breweries. However, opponents could express concerns regarding oversight and accountability in alcohol distribution, fearing that increased access might lead to regulatory challenges or underage access issues. Furthermore, there could be discussion on the effects of state regulations on competition within the distribution landscape, especially concerning larger out-of-state manufacturers.

Companion Bills

IA HF57

Similar To A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of beer, levying a barrel tax, providing fees, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 526.)

IA SSB1147

Related 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.

Previously Filed As

IA SF2167

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of beer, and including effective date provisions.

IA SSB3154

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of beer and including effective date provisions.

IA HF260

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of beer and including effective date provisions.

IA HF2670

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of alcoholic liquor and including effective date provisions.(Formerly HF 2629, HF 83.)

IA HF2629

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of alcoholic liquor and including effective date provisions.(Formerly HF 83; See HF 2670.)

IA SF2168

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of alcoholic liquor, and including effective date provisions.

IA HF83

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of alcoholic liquor and including effective date provisions.(See HF 2629, HF 2670.)

IA HF2669

A bill for an act relating to the sale of wine, including private wine sales and wine auction permits, providing fees, and making penalties applicable. (Formerly HF 2449, HSB 629.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

IA HF2449

A bill for an act relating to the sale of wine, including private wine sales and wine auction permits, providing fees, and making penalties applicable.(Formerly HSB 629; See HF 2669.)

IA HSB629

A bill for an act relating to the sale of wine, including private wine sales and wine auction permits, providing fees, and making penalties applicable.(See HF 2449, HF 2669.)

Similar Bills

IA HF128

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

IA HF57

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of beer, levying a barrel tax, providing fees, making penalties applicable, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 526.)

IA SSB1147

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.

IA SF2167

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of beer, and including effective date provisions.

IA SSB3154

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of beer and including effective date provisions.

NM HB343

Direct Beer Shipment Permits

NM SB163

Direct Liquor Shipments

IA SF245

A bill for an act providing for the direct shipment of alcoholic liquor, providing fees, and including effective date provisions.