HARRISBURG, PA – The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association testified Wednesday before the PA House Liquor Control Committee in support of House Bill 1451, legislation that would modernize Pennsylvania’s Liquor Code to allow licensed third-party transporters to deliver beer, wine, and ready-to-drink cocktails on behalf of licensed retailers.
In prepared remarks, PFMA outlined how HB 1451 creates a meaningful opportunity for member businesses across the Commonwealth. Given the fine margins upon which food retailers operate, policies that responsibly expand revenue opportunities can make a real difference for local employers and the communities they serve.
HB 1451 reflects how consumers shop today. As grocery delivery becomes more common, customers expect the ability to include alcohol purchases in a single transaction.
A central focus of PFMA’s testimony was safety. The bill maintains strict age-verification standards and clearly assigns responsibility at the point of delivery. Under HB 1451, trained Class D Transporters-for-Hire would be responsible for verifying age and sobriety at the customer’s doorstep. The measure also codifies penalties for drivers who fail to follow the law and provides liability protection for retailers that properly process orders but do not control the final handoff.
“Our members have proven they are responsible partners in Pennsylvania’s evolving adult beverage marketplace,” said Alex Baloga, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association. “As consumer expectations continue to shift toward delivery, we must ensure state law can support businesses operating in this evolving marketplace, while maintaining the safeguards that are critical to age-restricted products.”
PFMA noted that similar delivery models are already operating successfully in more than 30 other states. HB 1451 incorporates best practices that balance efficiency with enforcement. The association looks forward to continuing to work with lawmakers to advance HB 1451 and ensure that Pennsylvania’s regulatory framework supports both economic growth and public safety.
About PFMA
The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association has advocated for the food and beverage industry across the Commonwealth since 1952. Today the association represents nearly 500 member companies from across the globe that operate thousands of retail food stores, production facilities and distribution centers, and collectively employ more than 350,000 Pennsylvanians. For more information on PFMA, visit pfma.org.
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