27 U.S.C. § 215 — Labeling requirement

(a) Statement required on container — Starting 12 months after November 18, 1988, no one may manufacture, import, or bottle an alcoholic beverage for sale or distribution in the United States unless its container carries this exact warning: "GOVERNMENT WARNING: (1) According to the Surgeon General, women should not drink alcoholic beverages during pregnancy because of the risk of birth defects. (2) Consumption of alcoholic beverages impairs your ability to drive a car or operate machinery, and may cause health problems." (b) Conspicuous and prominent location of statement on container — This warning must go in a spot on the container that the Secretary decides is conspicuous and prominent, in a type size the Secretary sets, and on a background that contrasts with the text. The Secretary had to decide on these details within 90 days of November 18, 1988. (c) Alcoholic beverages intended for export; beverages intended for Armed Forces of the United States — The warning label isn't required for beverages made, imported, bottled, or labeled for export from the U.S., or for delivery as supplies to a ship or aircraft, meant to be consumed outside U.S. tax jurisdiction. But this exception doesn't apply if the beverage is instead meant for sale, distribution, or shipment to members or units of the U.S. Armed Forces — including those stationed outside the country; those still need the warning. (d) Powers of Secretary; rules and regulations; consultation and coordination with Surgeon General — The Secretary must: (1) enforce this subchapter and issue regulations to carry it out; and (2) consult and coordinate health-awareness efforts about these labeling rules with the Surgeon General.