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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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CONTACT: Lauren
Rooney |
State Rep. John Pallone |
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Picking up a six-pack and a loaf of bread
Pallone wants to keep distributors in the loop as the state discusses expanding beer sales
HARRISBURG, March 26 – A debate is brewing in Harrisburg on whether adults should be allowed to pick up a six-pack while they do their regular grocery shopping. State Rep. John Pallone, D-Westmoreland/Armstrong, has legislation on tap that if that happens, retail establishments would purchase malt and brewed beverages only from a licensed distributor.
“As discussions continue as to whether supermarkets, convenience stores or other retail establishments should be allowed to sell beer, I think it is important to ensure safeguards are in place to provide for the proper distribution of malt beverages by the local distributors licensed by the state,” Pallone said.
Under Pallone’s legislation, supermarkets, convenience stores and other retail establishments wanting to sell beer would have to purchase their supplies only from a distributor or importing distributor that is properly licensed by the Commonwealth, and properly authorized by the manufacturer to sell and/or otherwise market or distribute malt and/or brewed beverages to retail licensees in a geographic area. This restriction shall only apply to a retail establishment whose sales of beer for off-premise consumption are 75 percent or more of its total beer sales.
Pallone also said that if a retail establishment is allowed to sell beer, that it would be required to use an extensive I.D. check system to ensure minors are not allowed to make alcohol purchases. Pallone is preparing legislation that would provide a tax credit of up to $500 for alcohol and tobacco licensees who purchase and use technology or software intended to control or restrict the access of minors.
The House Liquor Control Committee held a public hearing in Harrisburg on Tuesday, March 20 to discuss whether malt liquor should be available at supermarkets and convenience stores.
You may share your thoughts about supermarkets selling beer and wine by filling out a survey on Pallone’s Web site at www.pahouse.com/Pallone.
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