Whereas Federal and State regulation of the licensed alcohol beverage industry has effectively balanced competition with control, while maintaining an orderly, transparent, and accountable market, and has moderated the responsible sale and consumption of alcohol, while promoting consumer choice and variety; Whereas regulated commerce of alcohol beverages annually contributes $136 billion in Federal and State tax revenues as well as $682 billion to the United States economy, and further supports the employment of 4.7 million people in the United States in more than 25,000 permitted breweries, distilleries, wineries, more than 20,000 wholesale distributor facilities, more than 640,000 retail outlets, and numerous agricultural, construction, manufacturing, transportation, and service industry businesses; Whereas prior to the passage of the 18th Amendment to the Constitution (Prohibition), which prohibited the manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors , the lack of sufficient regulation led to widespread abuses of alcohol distribution and consumption to the detriment of the public health, welfare, and safety; Whereas after its passage, a dramatic increase in illegal activity occurred, including unsafe black market alcohol production, a growth in violent organized crime, and increased noncompliance with alcohol laws; Whereas, in 1933, the 72d Congress submitted to the States the question of repealing the 18th Amendment and requiring the transportation or importation of alcohol beverages for delivery or use in any State to be carried out in compliance with the laws of that State