Indiana Senate backs bill loosening rules on wine sales

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Indiana residents are a step closer to being able to buy wine directly from a winery without first having to make an in-person visit.

The state Senate voted 40-10 on Tuesday in favor of a bill eliminating the current requirement that residents having wine shipped to them first conduct a face-to-face transaction to ensure that the buyer is at least 21 years old. The proposal would require buyers to provide a copy of a government-issued ID to confirm they are of legal age.

Supporters of the change say it will give a business boost to Indiana wineries and give wine consumers more choices.

The bill now goes to the House for consideration.