Kauffman Supports Removing Government from the Business of Selling Alcohol
HARRISBURG – Rep. Rob Kauffman (R-Franklin) today voted with the majority of his colleagues in the House to remove state government from the business of selling alcohol and, instead, focus its efforts on enforcement of state liquor laws.
“Currently, the same agency advertising and trying to sell the public alcohol is the same agency also trying to enforce Pennsylvania laws regarding alcohol sales and consumption,” said Kauffman. “That is an inherent conflict of interest that needs to end. The sale of wine and spirits should be handled by the experts of sales and marketing – private industry. The state should direct its efforts on enforcement of state liquor laws. This is simple common sense.”
To view more of Kauffman’s comments, watch the video.
Under
House Bill 466, state wine and spirit stores would gradually close once a certain number of liquor licenses are sold. According to the proposal, beer distributors across the state would benefit from having the first opportunity to purchase a license and also being able to sell six packs, 12 packs and growlers, as opposed to only cases.
“This would ensure our mom-and-pop beer retailers have the opportunity to expand their business and increase revenue,” said Kauffman. “Again, we want to support private business and job growth in the Commonwealth, and this legislation supports that goal.”
House Bill 466 is estimated to generate at least $1 billion in upfront revenues, along with license renewal fees and the continuation of taxes on alcohol sales. By privatizing the business, the state also expects to recapture revenue currently being lost when consumers cross into bordering states to purchase alcohol.
Kauffman noted House Bill 466 would refocus the Liquor Control Board on the following: retaining tight regulatory control; strengthening law enforcement; clamping down on underage drinking; and promoting education.
For more information on the liquor privatization plan, go to
PAHouseGOP.com. House Bill 466 now goes to the state Senate for consideration.
Representative Rob Kauffman
89th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Tricia Lehman
717.772.9840
tlehman@pahousegop.com
RepKauffman.com