Md. Report On Wine By Mail Called 'Starting Point'

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Comptroller Peter Franchot says a report on how 37 states and Washington, D.C. execute laws allowing direct shipment of alcoholic beverages is a "starting point."

Franchot released the report on Tuesday. It was ordered by state legislators and does not make policy recommendations.

The report disputes claims that direct shipment would make it easier for minors to get wine. It also suggests that Maryland's liquor wholesalers and retailers would see little economic harm if residents could have wine shipped directly to their homes.

The report comes amid growing signs that key lawmakers are working toward making direct wine sales legal in Maryland.

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