Federal Judge Rules Ban on Home Distilling Unconstitutional

A federal judge in Texas ruled the 156-year-old ban on at-home distilling unconstitutional, favoring the Hobby Distillers Association, potentially allowing individuals to legally produce spirits like whiskey and bourbon for personal use. The ruling found that the ban exceeded Congress's taxing power and violated the U.S. Constitution's Commerce Clause. While the decision grants relief to the association's members, it is temporarily stayed for 14 days for potential government appeal. The lawsuit highlighted the regulatory overreach into activities conducted within homes, challenging agencies like the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. The ruling signifies a victory for individual rights and limited government power, as acknowledged by the Competitive Enterprise Institute representing the hobby group.