Montana OKs Third-Party Alcohol Delivery—What You Need to Know" Montana just approved third-party alcohol delivery, opening doors for services like

# Montana Embraces Third-Party Alcohol Delivery – What You Need to Know

Montana has officially joined the growing number of states allowing third-party alcohol delivery services, marking a significant shift in how residents can purchase beer, wine, and spirits. The new law, recently signed by Governor Greg Gianforte, opens the door for companies like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and other delivery platforms to include alcohol in their offerings.

## What the New Law Means for Consumers

Under the updated regulations:

- **Expanded Convenience:** Residents can now order alcohol through licensed third-party delivery services alongside their food orders.
- **Age Verification Required:** Strict ID checks will be enforced to prevent underage purchases.
- **Local Business Boost:** Local breweries, wineries, and liquor stores can partner with delivery services to expand their reach.
- **County-by-County Rules:** Some counties may still impose restrictions, so availability could vary.

### Why This Change Matters

Montana has long had a unique relationship with alcohol laws, balancing tourism-driven demand with local control. This move modernizes the state’s approach while maintaining safeguards:

- **Tourism Impact:** With Montana being a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, easier access to alcohol could boost hospitality businesses.
- **Safety Concerns:** Critics worry about increased DUIs, but supporters argue secure age verification will mitigate risks.
- **Economic Potential:** Small breweries and distilleries could see increased sales without needing in-house delivery infrastructure.

## How It Compares to Other States

Montana isn’t the first state to allow third-party alcohol delivery, but its approach stands out:

| **State** | **Alcohol Delivery Rules** |
|------------------|---------------------------|
| **California** | Allowed through major apps |
| **Texas** | Limited to certain areas |
| **Florida** | Requires separate permits |
| **Montana** | Statewide with county opt-outs |

### Who Benefits Most?

- **Consumers:** Easier access, especially in rural areas with fewer liquor stores.
- **Local Businesses:** More sales without upfront delivery costs.
- **Delivery Apps:** A new revenue stream in a previously restricted market.

## What’s Next?

While the law is now in effect, implementation will take time as businesses and delivery platforms adjust. Expect to see partnerships announced in the coming months, with some services rolling out faster in larger cities like Billings and Missoula.

### What Do You Think?

- **Is alcohol delivery a smart move, or does it risk increasing underage drinking?**
- **Should counties have the power to ban deliveries even if the state allows them?**
- **Will this help small breweries, or just favor big delivery corporations?**
- **Could this lead to more drunk driving incidents despite age verification?**

Share your thoughts below! 🍻