Home distillers rejoice as US Supreme Court considers whether to finally legalise moonshine

What the report says

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to revisit a long-standing federal ban on making distilled spirits at home, a case that could determine whether moonshining can be treated more like home brewing of beer and wine. According to BBC World News, the court agreed this week to hear challenges to an 1868 law that makes private home distilling illegal, with oral arguments expected early next year and a possible ruling later in 2027.

The dispute centers on whether Congress exceeded its authority when it imposed the ban for tax-enforcement reasons during the Reconstruction era. Plaintiffs argue the law is outdated and unconstitutional, while government lawyers say it remains a lawful way to prevent tax evasion. Lower courts have split on the issue, adding to the likelihood that the justices will settle the question.

The BBC report highlights hobbyists such as Wyoming mechanic Geno Stecks, who says he has converted part of his home into a distilling space, as well as members of the Hobby Distillers Association who joined the legal challenge. Supporters say the practice is a traditional American pastime and point to state laws in places such as Missouri and New Hampshire that permit limited home production. Industry critics, however, warn that distilling at home can be hazardous and may create safety and health risks for users and neighbors.