MB&WWA applauds Michigan AG, MLCC for ongoing crackdown on illegal alcohol shipments
Recent court actions against New York- and Washington-based wineries mark latest efforts to protect small businesses and jobs
LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (MB&WWA) is commending Attorney General Dana Nessel and the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) for their continued efforts to hold out-of-state companies accountable for illegally shipping alcohol into the state.
The aggressive approach by Attorney General Nessel’s office continues to lead the country in crackdowns on bad actors who illegally ship alcohol into Michigan. Her office has pursued 37 lawsuits, four of which are pending, resulting in multiple injunctions and significant fines. The latest cases against New York-based Pellegrini Vineyards and Washington-based Tsillan Cellars seek court orders to halt further shipments into Michigan and impose fines of up to $25,000 per violation.
“Illegal out-of-state alcohol shipments undermine Michigan’s small businesses, threaten jobs, and deprive our communities of much-needed tax revenue that funds schools, police, fire services and other critical resources,” said Spencer Nevins, president of the MB&WWA. “We applaud Attorney General Nessel and the MLCC for their steadfast commitment to protecting Michigan consumers and supporting the local businesses that follow the law.”
Under Michigan law, out-of-state wineries must obtain a direct shipper license to ship wine to Michigan consumers, while out-of-state retailers are strictly prohibited from doing so. These regulations ensure tax compliance, safeguard public health and safety, and uphold Michigan’s three-tier alcohol distribution system, which fosters competition and provides consumers with a wide range of choices.
Despite receiving cease and desist letters from the Attorney General’s office, investigators confirmed illegal shipments from both Pellegrini Vineyards and Tsillan Cellars through undercover purchases. These lawsuits are the latest in a series of successful enforcement actions that have imposed fines and secured court orders against violators.
“Attorney General Nessel’s decisive action sends a clear message that illegal alcohol shipments will not be tolerated in Michigan,” Nevins said. “We encourage continued vigilance to ensure our state’s laws are respected, protecting consumers and supporting Michigan’s thriving alcohol industry.”
