Taking a small step toward modernity
OK, it’s not as momentous as Prohibition being kicked to the curb more than 80 years ago, but Pennsylvania’s expansion of its alcohol laws last week represents a vital and long overdue first step toward bringing the commonwealth into modernity.
After rejecting liquor privatization almost a year ago, Gov. Tom Wolf signed off on a measure that will allow the direct shipment of wine to homes in Pennsylvania, rather than having it diverted to a state store before it can be taken home. In addition, hotels, restaurants and – wait for it – grocery stores with take-out beer licenses, will be able to sell up to four bottles of wine per customer; Liquor stores, now all controlled by the state, will have more autonomy in setting their hours; casinos will be allowed to serve alcohol around the clock; and breweries will have the opportunity to purchase licenses that would allow them to sell their goods at farmers markets.
There’s a bit of a catch, however. According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, an excise tax levied on individuals who have wine shipped to their homes will be earmarked for boards consisting of members appointed by legislators and the governor that will offer grants to promote Pennsylvania products.
William Morrin, a lawyer whose clientele includes restaurant and bar owners, told the website philly.com, “Overall, I think it’s a slow chipping away of the total control of the liquor-store system. The Legislature is trying to appease the consumer by giving these little advances toward privatization.”
And those little advances can add up over time. Maybe one day the planets will align and both the Legislature and whoever happens to be Pennsylvania’s governor will agree the commonwealth has no business being in the liquor business.