Massachusetts opening to shipping

After more than four years the State of Massachusetts finally passed legislation to fix its direct shipping statute.  The foot-dragging, after the state lost in Family Winemakers of California v. Jenkins, thwarted Bay State consumers and wineries across the U.S. as wholesalers and package store interests delayed legislative action.  Governor Deval Patrick signed the 2014 budget with the legislative fix included.  The remaining piece of the puzzle is to fix the common carrier fleet licensing issue so UPS and FedEx and accept and deliver shipments.  The ABCC will be using the fall to update winery licensing forms.