Amid the budget negotiations, Governor Tom Wolf proposed leasing the entire state liquor system, including retail and wholesale operations to a private management firm. While the state would retain ownership, the firm would determine the number of store and pricing in addition to maintaining the state's union employees.
According to the administration, the plan would allow for the possibility of wine in grocery stores and restaurants and six-packs in convenience stores.
Rep. Costa's legislation would allow restaurants, small delis and hotels to sell wine to go and beer in additional quantities,while beer distributors would be able to sell six-packs, mixed cases and growlers for people looking to sample different styles of beer. Licensed grocery stores also would be permitted to sell bottles of wine in addition to beer.
He also would call for expanding Sunday store hours for Fine Wine and Good Spirit Stores, creating a customer reward and discount program, and allowing for the shipment of wine directly to consumers.
Costa said his legislation would create jobs while preserving family-sustaining jobs, provide additional ways for consumers to purchase wine and beer in areas under served by the Liquor Control Board and keep prices down.
PFMA will review these plans as more detailed information becomes available. The association favors a more expansive liquor privatization plan than what was offered this summer by House and Senate Republicans, but we do hope this will open a dialogue for further discussion to provide consumer convenience.
According to the administration, the plan would allow for the possibility of wine in grocery stores and restaurants and six-packs in convenience stores.
Rep. Costa's legislation would allow restaurants, small delis and hotels to sell wine to go and beer in additional quantities,while beer distributors would be able to sell six-packs, mixed cases and growlers for people looking to sample different styles of beer. Licensed grocery stores also would be permitted to sell bottles of wine in addition to beer.
He also would call for expanding Sunday store hours for Fine Wine and Good Spirit Stores, creating a customer reward and discount program, and allowing for the shipment of wine directly to consumers.
Costa said his legislation would create jobs while preserving family-sustaining jobs, provide additional ways for consumers to purchase wine and beer in areas under served by the Liquor Control Board and keep prices down.
PFMA will review these plans as more detailed information becomes available. The association favors a more expansive liquor privatization plan than what was offered this summer by House and Senate Republicans, but we do hope this will open a dialogue for further discussion to provide consumer convenience.