Act 39 changes
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.