Dear Chairmen Pyle & Deasy:
(12/13/19) It is our understanding that the House Liquor Committee may meet to consider HB 1279, sponsored by Representative Mihalek, as early as next week. As currently drafted HB
1279 would double the total number of bottles of wine that the holder of a Wine Expanded Permit (WEP) could sell for off premise consumption in a single transaction from 3,000 mL (4 bottles) to 6,000 mL (8 bottles). It is further our understanding that an amendment may be offered to triple the total amount to 9,000 mL (12 bottles).
As you are aware, in the past our industry has had concerns about efforts to increase the availability of hard liquor and wine, especially when those efforts did not include parity for beer sales. Despite these past reservations and past differences within our industry, we have come to an industry consensus that we will support HB 1279 if it is amended to include commensurate increases for off premise beer sales at WEP holders.
As brewers and wholesalers we stand ready to work with you to achieve a position that does not disadvantage malt and brewed beverages in Pennsylvania and thank you for your consideration of our position.
Cc: Members of the House Liquor Control Committee
