PA Governor Corbett Voices Support For Liquor Privatization

HARRISBURG, PA /mbb/ — Governor Tom Corbett, along with more than 100 people, including legislators, businesspeople and consumers from around the state, today voiced their support for the consumer choice and convenience that comes with privatization of the state wine and spirits system.

"We are entering the home stretch in our efforts to give Pennsylvanians the same choice and convenience enjoyed in 48 other states," Corbett said. "Our proposal is designed for Pennsylvania’s consumers and working families who keep our economy running; and who deserve the same advantages and opportunities that other states provide when it comes to buying beer and wine."

Also speaking at the event were Cheryl Umberger, owner of Wet Your Whistle Beverage in Lebanon and Scott Karns, owner of Karns Quality Foods markets based in Mechanicsburg.

Corbett was also joined by Sen. Rich Alloway (R-Franklin), Sen. Scott Hutchinson (R-Venango), Rep. Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny), Rep. Seth Grove (R-York), Rep. Brian Ellis (R-Butler), Rep. Mark Mustio (R-Allegheny), Rep. Lee James (R-Venango), Rep. Kurt Masser (R-Northumberland), Rep. Dave Reed (R-Indiana), Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon), Rep. Sheryl Delozier (R-Cumberland), Rep. Mike Peifer (R-Pike), Rep. Rick Saccone (R-Allegheny), Rep. RoseMarie Swanger (R-Lebanon), Rep. Duane Milne (R-Chester) and Rep. Jim Christiana (R-Beaver).

"In March, we made history when the House led us one step closer to real choice and convenience by passing House Bill 790," Corbett said.

"The bill is now in the Senate. Let’s get Pennsylvania out of this outdated system of selling alcohol once and for all, and reinvest the proceeds into Pennsylvania’s future – our children,” Corbett said. "Selling liquor is not a core function of government; education is."

The governor is calling for final passage of this legislation by June 30.

"Our proposal is part of my commitment to changing Harrisburg, streamlining government and moving Pennsylvania forward," Corbett said. "Our plan gives consumers what they want by increasing choice and convenience, and helps to secure our future by adding funding toward the education of our children, without raising any taxes."
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