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Act 39 of 2016

On June 8, 2016, Governor Wolf signed House Bill 1690 into law as Act 39 of 2016. Effective August 8, 2016, the Act transformatively changes many of the PLCB’s responsibilities, including regulatory, licensing, product procurement and marketing activities, among others. Among the most significant changes brought about by Act 39 are the following: 

  • Hotel and restaurant license holders (including those with approved interior connections to grocery stores or convenience stores) may apply for permits to sell limited quantities of wine to go.
  • Pennsylvania residents may receive up to 36 cases per year of wine (for personal use) shipped by a wine producer licensed by the PLCB as a direct wine shipper. The 36-case annual limit is per direct wine shipper, and wine may be shipped to home or business addresses.
  • The PLCB markup on special liquor orders is reduced to 10 percent.
  • Restrictions to Sunday hours and the number of Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores allowed to be open on Sundays were eliminated.
  • The PLCB is granted common retail marketing abilities including pricing flexibility, a customer loyalty program and couponing opportunities.
  • The PLCB is authorized to sell Pennsylvania Lottery tickets at Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores.
  • A new casino license allows for 24/7 alcohol sales and free drinks at invitation-only events.
  • The PLCB is authorized to auction restaurant liquor licenses that have expired since 2000, in order to accommodate increased market demand for licenses.

Act 39 also establishes a commission to study the wholesale and retail wine and spirits marketplace in Pennsylvania, and creates two boards for the purpose of effectively marketing and increasing the production of Pennsylvania-made wines and malt and brewed beverages through the issuance of grants.