In the near future, I, and my colleague, Representative Davidson, will each introduce a piece of legislation to modernize Pennsylvania’s Liquor Code to improve operational flexibility for licensees and better align our laws with current economic and community activity patterns.
 
The first bill, as introduced by myself, updates Sunday sales hours for liquor licensees by allowing hotel and restaurant licensees to begin sales at 7:00 A.M. rather than 9:00 A.M. with the appropriate permit. This change reflects evolving consumer behavior, supports businesses that serve early-morning patrons, and brings Pennsylvania more in line with neighboring states.
 
The second bill, as introduced by Representative Davidson, establishes a new event permit framework for a wide range of licensees, including restaurants, clubs, breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Under this legislation:

• Eligible licensees may apply for permits to extend sales hours for specific events (up to 4:00 a.m. the following day).
• Permits are limited in number annually and subject to spacing requirements to prevent overuse.
• Applicants must provide advance notice to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board and local law enforcement.
• A structured fee system supports administration while minimizing burden on recurring applicants.

 
Additionally, the legislation clarifies existing restrictions in the Liquor Code to ensure consistency with the new permitting structure and eliminate ambiguity around lawful sales hours.
 
Together, these bills:

• Support Pennsylvania’s hospitality, tourism, and small business sectors
• Provide clear, predictable rules for special events and community gatherings
• Enhance regulatory oversight while offering reasonable flexibility
• Modernize outdates provisions of the Liquor Code to reflect current realities

 
These reforms strike a balance between economic growth, public safety, and responsible alcohol service.
 
Please join me in cosponsoring this commonsense update to Pennsylvania law.