Wine by post proposal in the US

The newly proposed USPS Equity Act may allow the US Postal Service to deliver alcohol directly to consumers from producers and retailers, a service that has been restricted to private carriers like FedEx and UPS since the Prohibition era.

On September 18, 2024, Senator Jeff Merkley introduced the bill that could end this longstanding ban, marking the sixth attempt to lift it. If passed, the law would give the postal service equal footing with private companies, creating more competition and helping alcohol producers reach remote areas. Supporters believe the act could generate $190 million annually for USPS, which faces significant financial struggles.

However, opposition centres around concerns of underage access to alcohol and potential loss of tax revenue. Merkley assures that strict regulations, including ID checks, would be in place. The USPS has yet to comment, but key industry groups have expressed support.