California Congressman Mike Thompson held a tele-press conference today to discuss HR 5034, or the CARE Act, pushed by the National Beer Wholesalers Association. You might recall that Mike testified at the House Judiciary subcommittee on Courts and Competition Policy hearing in March, which dealt with similar issues as this legislation. Wholesalers say the CARE Act gives states ultimate authority in alcohol regulation (as long as it's not facially discriminatory) and places the burden in litigation on the plaintiff. Wineries and other suppliers feel there is more sinister intent, and that wholesalers are only trying to protect their businesses and dismantle direct shipping.