PA Chamber Applauds Corbett Liquor Plan

Member Group : PA Chamber of Business and Industry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jan. 30, 2013

PA Chamber welcomes administration’s focus on modernizing alcohol sales, distribution in Commonwealth

HARRISBURG, PA – The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry today applauded Gov. Tom Corbett for presenting a comprehensive proposal to improve and modernize alcohol sales in the Commonwealth.

"The governor presented a compelling, comprehensive plan today, as have other lawmakers who support sweeping changes to the manner in which alcohol is sold and distributed in the Commonwealth," PA Chamber Gene Barr said. "It is long past time for the state to get out of the liquor business; it is not a core function of state government. We believe a responsible private system would better improve the buying experience for customers by promoting competitive pricing and increased convenience, while continuing to generate revenue for the Commonwealth."

Unveiled at a Pittsburgh, PA news conference, the Corbett administration’s proposal focuses on customer convenience and choice, and would provide opportunities for numerous outlets – from "big box" stores to convenience stores – to sell alcohol, while giving new options to restaurants, hotels and taverns.

Barr said Pennsylvania Chamber members support privatization efforts, and stressed that Pennsylvania residents also overwhelmingly support changes to the current system beyond privatization of liquor sales.

"The governor’s plan considers the entire system and provides private-sector options for giving consumers what they want, ensures continued revenue for essential government programs, and guarantees proper oversight," he said.

Barr said PA Chamber members look forward to working with the governor and elected officials on a proposal that ends Pennsylvania’s liquor monopoly and allows the free enterprise system to work with regard to the sale of alcohol.

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The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry is the state’s largest broad-based business advocacy organization, with its membership comprising businesses of all sizes and across all industry sectors. The PA Chamber is The Statewide Voice of Business™.