Jun. 30, 2015
HARRISBURG – The state House today voted in favor of a bill that would privatize the Commonwealth’s liquor system (
House Bill 466), according to York County House Republican state Reps. Seth Grove (R-Dover), Stan Saylor (R-Red Lion), Mike Regan (R-Dillsburg), Keith Gillespie (R-Hellam), Kate Klunk (R-Hanover) and Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York Township). The members issued the following statement:
“For years, we’ve heard from constituents who want state government out of the liquor business. This legislation does that, replacing the current outdated and archaic state store system with a 21st century approach which prioritizes accessibility and convenience.
“House Bill 466 would allow distributors to expand their businesses to sell liquor and wine in addition to beer. It also allows private wine wholesalers to sell products to Commonwealth customers and permits direct shipment of out-of-state wine directly to consumers’ doorstep. The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) would still operate state stores until there are twice as many retail stores as there are current state-operated outlets.
“This bill addresses ‘border bleed,’ which happens when Pennsylvanians travel to other states to purchase liquor. When our own citizens essentially become modern-day bootleggers, they negatively impact our own state’s economy by spending their discretionary income out-of-state. This legislation keeps that money in Pennsylvania, where it belongs.
“The funding generated by House Bill 466 will allow us to avoid harmful, historic tax increases, while funding the Commonwealth’s needs. We look forward to the governor’s consideration of the budget, along with this liquor privatization legislation. Now is the time to show true commitment to ‘schools that teach,’ ‘jobs that pay,’ and ‘government that works.’”
York County House Republican Delegation
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Nick Ruffner
717.260.6258
nruffner@pahousegop.com