PA Liquor System Restrictive

Pennsylvania has one of the most restrictive alcohol sales systems in the country. We are one of only two states that have state-run retail and wholesale liquor sales. Despite strident opposition from Democrats and some Republicans to privatize and liberalize alcohol sales for Pennsylvanians, the General Assembly, and Governor granted a reprieve to Philadelphia during the Democratic National Convention.

An article from Reason.com sums up the situation nicely:

"For convention week, Philly bars, restaurants, hotels, and event spaces were allowed to apply for permits granting them the privilege to serve thirsty politicos until 4 a.m.—last call is usually 2 a.m. The DNC host committee negotiated this late-night privilege for local businesses, payed [sic] the one-time application fee, and helped the city’s Liquor Control Board review applications. At least 20 Philly venues were granted permission to stay open late.

"Contra the regular rules, venues will also be able to serve wine and spirits from non-state sources from July 25-28. Generally, they must purchases these from pricey state-run stores. The state said the rule change allows venues to serve alcohol that has been donated and for out-of-towners to host events featuring booze from their home states."

One of the main reasons that there is a growing frustration with government, at all levels, is the increasing realization among the "little people" that the citizenry is subject to a different set of rules than the ruling class. As George Orwell put it, "All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others."

Governor Wolf and his Democratic colleagues recognize the absurdity of Pennsylvania’s arcane liquor control laws when applied to their friends at the DNC. What possible reason could they have for opposing the same changes for those of us who live in Pennsylvania full time?