SB2989 Summary

• Increases license fees for Illinois liquor manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, with separate rates for online renewals versus initial/non-online renewals effective January 1, 2017.

• Modifies winery shipper's license requirements to require disclosure of all shipping addresses and third-party wine providers, with third-party providers (except common carriers) required to register with the State Commission and file annual shipment statements.

• Creates stricter penalties for unlicensed alcohol transport and sales, distinguishing between quantities of 108+ liters of wine, 45+ liters of spirits, or 118+ liters of beer (Class 4 felony) versus smaller amounts (business offense), and provides exemptions for licensed carriers.

• Clarifies that third-party wine providers acting on behalf of winery shippers are agents of the license holder and subject to state jurisdiction, with the Commission authorized to prohibit appointments of providers who violate the Act.

• Establishes that retail license fee revenue is split 50/50 between the Dram Shop Fund and General Revenue Fund effective June 30, 2016.