The USPS Shipping Equity Act

While private carriers are able to ship alcohol, due to outdated Prohibition Era regulations, it is currently illegal for the Postal Service to ship these products. It's time we lift this ban and enable the public Postal Service to realize the opportunity to increase revenue and expand on demanded services.

THE USPS SHIPPING EQUITY ACT (H.R. 3721)

Lead Cosponsors: Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04) and Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA-10)

This bill, introduced in the House on May 25, 2023, would fully remove the current prohibition on the Postal Service shipping beer, alcohol, and wine direct to consumers, while setting up regulations that would require:

• Recipients to be 21 or older, with possession of a valid government issued ID shown at time of delivery
• The Postal Service to comply with state and local laws in force at the point of delivery

This legislation levels the playing field between the Postal Service and private carriers, who are already permitted to ship alcohol and have made billions from this revenue stream.

"This crucial legislation has the potential to createopportunity for the wine, beer, and spirits landscape, foster economic growth, and empower consumers and businesses alike" - Rep. Dan Newhouse.

Additionally, this bill provides equal access to all customers. The Postal Service delivers to every address, regardless of geographic location. Under this bill, people in rural areas, who would otherwise see exorbitant shipping fees or no shipping options at all, will have access to competitively priced, direct-to-consumer shipping of beer and wine.

As the Postal Service looks for ways to innovate and diversify services, delivering wine, beer, and spirits is a clear way for USPS to offer competitive service, as well as bring in additional revenue.

It is time to allow USPS to fairly compete in this sector and allow consumers access to affordable delivery of alcoholic beverages.