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Modernization Plans Dominate PLCB Appropriations Hearing

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Talk of liquor store privatization was brushed aside at Thursday’s Senate Appropriations Committee with the Liquor Control Board.  Instead, the focus was on modernization. 

The governor’s proposed budget calls for an $80-million dollar transfer from the Liquor Control Board to the General Fund next year.  LCB CEO Joe Conti tells lawmakers that number is right on target, but they could generate even more revenues if only they were allowed to modernize.  “It’s clear that we think we could add $70-million dollars to our bottom line,” Conti explained during an extended Q&A with the committee. 

One of the high-profile reforms he seeks is flexible pricing.  “We would just like to price the way that all other retailers price their product, with a mix of pricing,” Conti explained.  “And we are not able to do that now.”  He later stressed that prices would still be the same across the commonwealth, but the LCB would have greater discretion in how they are set. 

The retail price we pay on every bottle at state-run liquor stores includes: the wholesale price, the 18% state liquor tax, a 30% markup, a handling fee and federal alcohol taxes.  The flexible pricing allowed in SB 1287 would allow the LCB to vary its 30% across-the-board markup, based on the product, and likely nix the handling fee. 

That legislation currently awaits action in the Senate Law & Justice Committee.  Meanwhile, legislation to privatize PA’s liquor stores is awaiting action in the House.  The Liquor Control Board is scheduled to appear for its House Appropriations Hearing on February 27th.

PNC Park

Beer in the Bleachers: Enjoy Responsibly

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The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (LCB) calls on sports fans to keep game days safe, and enjoy responsibly.  The message comes amid a growing number of reports of alcohol-related incidents at sporting events across the country.  Specifically, spokeswoman Stacey Witalec cites the near-fatal beating of a San Francisco Giants fan at the LA Dodgers home opener.  “Excessive use of alcohol may have been a contributing factor,” Witalec says.

In a statement, LCB chairman PJ Stapleton said safe and responsible consumption should be fans’ top priority.  “As a fan, you owe it to yourself, and to the family sitting next to you, to ensure they can leave the ballpark as safety as they arrived,” he continued.

Witalec also points out a University of Minnesota study that looked into fans’ behavior.  “8% of people were legally drunk, and 40% had something to drink while they were in the stadium.  So some concerning statistics.” 

For its part the LCB is reaching out to Pennsylvania’s colleges, major and minor league teams to help educate fans, and ensure they know their limits.  Witalec tells us the goal is to “start the conversation” about what changes need to be made to protect the families attending sporting events.