Legislation Would Extend Benefits for Restaurants and Bars
On Tuesday, June 15th, Governor Tom Wolf’s administration certified the results of the May primary election, resulting in the end of the disaster emergency declaration in Pennsylvania. While the Legislature has extended some regulatory waivers until September 30th, benefits afforded to establishments with liquor licenses, including drinks to go, have now ended. Three bills are now being considered in the Senate that would extend these benefits. The Chamber’s Board of Directors is supporting all three of the original House proposals.
- House Bill 1154 would allow licensed establishments to sell prepared beverages and mixed drinks for off-premises consumption permanently. The bill was introduced by Representative Kurt Masser and co-sponsored by Representative David Millard. It passed the House by a vote of 187-14 and Governor Wolf stated he would immediately sign the version passed by the House. A Senate committee added language that has now jeopardized the Governor’s support.
- House Bill 425, co-sponsored by Rep. Millard, would allow a licensed premises to be extended to outside serving areas that are immediately adjacent to or within 1000 feet of the licensed building through 2022. This bill passed the House unanimously and the language has now been incorporated into H.B. 1154.
- House Bill 427 would increase the discount of liquor to licensed establishments to 15% for a period of three years following the end of the disaster declaration. This legislation was also co-sponsored by Rep. Millard and passed the House unanimously.