A bill is in the state Senate that would allow sales of six-packs and 12-packs at beer distributorships, convenience stores and grocery stores throughout the state. Do you think this is a good idea?
Readers Turn: March 6
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An item to consider when modifying existing regulations on the sale of
beer is tourism.
My wife and I travel frequently to new places in Pennsylvania and other
states. After a hard day’s drive of anywhere up to 500 miles and
checking into a motel, I enjoy one or two beers while I’m relaxing.
Most times, the motel is on the outskirts of a town or city, but close
to a shopping center or perhaps a mom & pop grocery business. In states
such as New York or Maine it’s no problem picking up a six-pack of beer
at a convenience or drug store. A different story in Pennsylvania.
As a tourist in my own home state I cannot easily purchase that
six-pack. After that long day’s drive, most beer distributors are
closed. And even if they were open they would not be allowed to sell me
a six-pack. Being near a strange town I am not enthralled with the
prospect of having to go to an unknown bar to purchase a six-pack.
So what are the options for a tourist in Pennsylvania? There are only
two: carry your own beer with you or take your chances in a close local
bar which may not be in your best interest.
Support Senator John Rafferty's changes to these out-of-date laws and
allow beer sales for off-premises businesses such as Rite-Aid, CVS,
Mom&Pop grocery stores, etc. Yes, make a limit of 12 cans/bottles. And
to keep competition between retailers allow beer distributors to also
sell 12 packs.