In the near future, I plan to introduce companion legislation to Senate Bill 985.
 
My legislation will add importing distributors and the three-tier system as an option for how manufacturers and suppliers get their ready-to-drink (RTDs) to retail licensees.  This proposal will increase revenue for the Commonwealth and increase union jobs across our transportation industry.

As many of you are aware, last summer Act 86 of 2024 was signed into law, allowing RTDs to be sold outside of the state store system. This historic legislation gave Pennsylvania consumers the ability to buy spirit-based RTDs at their local grocery store, convenience store, beer distributor, or restaurant. 
 
While Act 86 was a huge step forward for Pennsylvania, there are ways to improve the current statue. This is evident in the Commonwealth’s revenue figures, which are falling short of estimates. Right now, fewer locations are selling, and fewer products are offered than in any comparable market because the legislation cut out the largest logistical partner of the alcohol beverage industry in Pennsylvania. 
 
Currently, only about 33% of retail beer distributors are selling RTDs.  If the wholesale tier was granted the opportunity to sell such products that number would more than double. Importing distributors already deliver to retail licensees, this legislation will make the process easier and more cost effective.  
 
It is well documented that the current three-tier system has proved effective for the distribution of malt and brewed beverages, providing consumer choice, the collecting and remittance of taxes, as well as protecting public health.
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring legislation that will bring parity to the industry, convenience to consumers and revenue to the Commonwealth.