Supreme Court considers interstate wine dispute News
Supreme Court considers interstate wine dispute

[JURIST] The Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday concerning state regulation of interstate wine sales. The controversy centers on the New York and Michigan state laws that allow direct in-state, but not out-of-state, shipments of wine. The Constitution implicitly prohibits states from passing laws that discriminate against businesses of another state. However, the 21st Amendment, which ended Prohibition in 1933, gives states the power to control liquor sales. Proponents of the state restrictions claim that interstate wine sales would create complications in policing the distribution of alcohol, a product that receives special Constitutional treatment. The Supreme Court's ruling would directly affect internet and phone sales of vineyards to customers across the country. Several justices in this morning's arguments appeared concerned over inconsistent state regulation, but seemed hesitant to overturn them. AP has more.