A House panel approved legislation allowing beer, wine, and liquor delivery in South Carolina, advancing the bill through the lower chamber despite continued opposition in the Senate.
The proposal, sponsored by House Judiciary Chairman Weston Newton, mirrors a bipartisan Senate bill currently stalled by objections from Senator Richard Cash. Both versions would license retailers for curbside pickup and home delivery, with age verification and other safeguards in place.
Advocates point to consumer demand for delivery services that have boomed since the pandemic. Industry giants like DoorDash, Shipt, and Total Wine & More have lobbied for the change for years, citing skyrocketing liquor store sales through their platforms.
Opponents, led by Senator Dick Harpootlian, worry about increased accessibility, particularly for underage individuals.They cite concerns about deliveries to crowded houses or college party scenes.
This is not the first attempt at home alcohol delivery in South Carolina. A temporary option existed during pandemic restrictions, but it vanished with the end of the emergency declaration.
Whether the House’s action will finally prompt Senate movement on the issue remains to be seen. The legislation faces a significant hurdle in Senator Cash’s continued opposition, leaving its future uncertain.
