Liquor Privatization Bill Passed In PA Senate By Republicans

A bill privatizing the sale of liquor passed the Pennsylvania State Senate 27-22 on Tuesday, according to the PA Legislature.

The bill was passed entirely by Republican members of the Senate.

If it passes into law, the bill would lead to the closure of state liquor stores, and cause liquor to be sold at grocery stores, hotels, and beer distributors.

“Most Pennsylvanians agree, they want to bring the liquor system in Pennsylvania into the 21st century,” said House Majority Leader State Rep. Dave Reed. “I think this bill is an obvious start.”

According to PAHouseGOP.com, the new bill:

- Creates 1,200 Wine and Spirits licenses.

- Beer distributors would be given first shot at these licenses for the first year.

- After one year, remainder of unused licenses sold to public.

- Licenses would allow sale of wine or liquor or both, but a license is not separable for different sellers (one for wine, one for liquor).

- Does not expand locations where beer may be sold (remember, the PLCB is already allowing “R” license sales in groceries and convenience stores).

The bill will now need to pass the House and be signed by Democratic Governor Tom Wolf before it can become law.

To read the full content of the bill, please click here.