| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Commerce & Labor Committee | |
HB 3176
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Authorizing wine warehouses to handle bottled wine.
Sponsors: Representatives Kenney, Conway, Condotta, Grant, McIntire, Ericks, Blake, Walsh, Hankins, Haler and Williams.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/31/08
Staff: Joan Elgee (786-7106).
Background:
A bonded wine warehouse license issued by the Liquor Control Board (Board) authorizes the
storage of bottled wine off the premises of a winery. Wine may be removed from a bonded wine
warehouse only to be exported, shipped to a distributor, or returned to a winery or bonded wine
warehouse.
In 2006 the Legislature authorized domestic wineries and out-of-state wineries to ship wine
directly to Washington residents age 21 or older. Wineries must make monthly reports on direct
shipments to the Board.
Summary of Bill:
The activities permitted under a bonded wine warehouse license are expanded to include the
handling of bottled wine. Handling includes packing and repackaging services; labeling services;
creating baskets or variety packs; and picking, packing and shipping wine orders direct to a
consumer.
A wine may be removed from a bonded wine warehouse to be directly shipped to a consumer. A
winery contracting with a bonded wine warehouse for handling services is responsible for
compliance and financial transactions in direct-to-consumer shipping activities.
Rules Authority: The bill does not address the rule-making powers of an agency.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 27, 2008.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.