Cheers! Both chambers of the Mississippi legislature have approved a bill that would allow the direct shipment of wine to residents of the state.
Senate Bill 2145 passed its originating chamber last week on a motion to reconsider before breezing through the House with a 79-25 vote on Tuesday. The legislation, authored by Sen. Walter Michel, R-Ridgeland, now heads to the desk of Republican Gov. Tate Reeves. If signed into law, direct wine shipments would begin July 1, 2025, bringing Mississippi up to speed with 47 other states that already allow the service.
According to the bill’s text, up to 12 cases of wine can be shipped to residents per year with someone 21 or older having to show identification when signing for the order. A 15.5% tax will be collected on each sale with 3% going to mental health services and the remaining being stowed away in the state’s general fund. Non-wine beverages such as liquor and beer are not included in the measure.
SB 2145 allows Mississippians to try out-of-state wines not available at local retailers without having to travel to do so. Lawmakers are still mulling over other alcohol-related pieces of legislation, including one that would allow liquor stores to open on Sundays. HB 92 passed the House last week and is awaiting approval from the Senate Finance Committee before it can head to the floor for a full vote.
