DUNMORE, PA — The Pennsylvania House on November 19 advanced legislation that would privatize the wholesale and retail distribution of wine and spirits in Pennsylvania. House Bill 1690 passed by a 110-86 margin and was opposed by six Republicans and all Democrats.

Seven Republicans who supported the bill issued a statement saying, “Time and time again we hear from constituents who ask us to get Pennsylvania out of the liquor business, which is why supporting House Bill 1690 is an easy vote to cast. They visit neighboring states and come home wondering why the same choice and convenience they enjoy outside Pennsylvania’s borders cannot be realized in their own neighborhood. Likewise, they hear from visitors to the Commonwealth who find it hard to believe we still operate under such an antiquated system.

“Pennsylvania needs to let the private sector do what it does best when it comes to wine and spirits. We need to do away with an outdated business model that allows discretionary spending to bleed over the border and leave the local economy.”