Bill Summary: HB 5139

• Establishes a gift basket retailer permit allowing retail sale of wine included in gift baskets, with wine not to be consumed on premises.

• Permit holders may sell gift baskets containing wine, food items, nonalcoholic beverages, wine-making kits, concentrates for mixed drinks, ice, and alcoholic beverage advertising clothing.

• Annual permit fee is $500 plus amounts required under general statutes section 30-66.

• Allows direct shipment of wine to consumers in Connecticut and other states, limited to 5 gallons per person per two-month period, with signature verification that recipient is age 21 or older.

• Requires permittees to register with Department of Revenue Services, pay applicable sales and alcoholic beverage taxes, maintain sales records, submit to audits, display permit number in online advertising, and use licensed in-state transporters for shipments.