We aggressively contact key legislative committee chairs and actively represent you at legislative and regulatory hearings that affect the beverage alcohol industry as a whole. You can’t come to the General Assembly every day; we are your eyes and ears, arms and legs.
Currently, there are no legal matters the TWSRA is engaged at this time.
In 2018, The TWSRA represented retailers in the US Supreme Court case TWSRA vs. Thomas. The ‘Tennessee case’, which was spurred by liquor retailer behemoth Total Wine & Spirits who challenged TN law, ultimately ruled the residency requirement for obtaining a state liquor license as unconstitutional. This case showed the importance of retailers standing together and efforts made by the TWSRA to fight for TN retailers event to the highest court in the land to have your voice heard.
Meanwhile, there are a currently a number of Direct to Consumer (DTC) cases across the country that are advocating to open up alcohol shipments for all retailers. These cases are using the TN case ruling for their argument to circumvent the three-tier system. Many cases are being lost at state and district courts, but advocates only need one case to reach the US Supreme Court which is their goal. The TWSRA is keeping a watchful eye and receiving updates from the American Beverage Licenses (ABL), which is a national ‘umbrella’ association of state liquor retailer and tavern associations located in Washington DC.
Today, small business liquor retailers continue to have a ‘target’ on their backs as large out of state interests are determined to ‘chip away’ at small business by changing our state laws to their favor. Our TWSRA advisors remain vigilant watching after legislation and legal issues that impact your business.
Our TWSRA Political Action Committee supports legislators who are advocate for our membership and is an important part of our strategy to ensure your voice is heard.
2014 Compromised on Wine in Grocery Stores (WIGS) Industry Bill
2015 Opposed the Passing of Sunday Sales Legislation
2017 Advocated Common Carrier Reporting Bill
2021 Advocated Comprehensive Fulfillment Licensing & DTC Brand Limitations Bill
2022 Advocated Removal of Case Discount Loophole in the Minimum Markup Rule
The TWSRA serves as an advocate for the retail beverage industry by promoting legislation and regulations which will improve business methods and the economic climate of the industry, and by opposing that which might not best serve the public, the retailers, or the alcoholic beverage industry as a whole ensure a fair and balanced marketplace.
The TWSRA recognizes the importance of retailers being involved to educate legislators, regulators, and consumers about our industry. By doing so, we elevate the reputation of the licensed beverage retailer and highlight the responsibility in the safe sale and distribution of alcohol.
The TWSRA provides a means to foster a better understanding and cooperation among all members of the beverage alcohol industry throughout Tennessee from suppliers, distributors, and even competitors which have become more numerous.
