Tom Tyler, owner of McStew’s Irish Sports Pub in Levittown

The following is a statement concerning the introduction of SB 1138, a bill to permanently allow the sale of cocktails-to-go. It is written by Tom Tyler, president of the Pennsylvania Licensed Beverage and Tavern Association (PLBTA). Mr. Tyler is also the owner of McStew’s Irish Sports Pub in Bucks County. The PLBTA, based in Harrisburg, is the statewide political voice for small business taverns, bars, and licensed restaurants.

Today, Sens. Daniel Laughlin (R-49) and John Yudichak (I-14) introduced SB 1138, a bill that would allow taverns, bars, and licensed restaurants to permanently sell cocktails-to-go.

While cocktails-to-go served as a lifeline during the COVID-19 emergency declaration, it also provided a way for family-owned establishments to expand their product offerings and increase customer convenience. Unfortunately, the end of the emergency declaration also meant the end to these products. This was a loss to both our industry and our patrons.

A recent report from the Independent Fiscal Office paints a clear picture showing our industry was hit hard during the pandemic. Figures from the report are concerning and suggest the industry continues to need assistance as part of its recovery.

By introducing SB 1138, Sens. Laughlin and Yudichak have demonstrated their concern for the future success of small business taverns, bars, and licensed restaurants. The Pennsylvania Licensed Beverage and Tavern Association and our Members, representing tens of thousands of employees and many more patrons, thank both senators for introducing this bill.

We encourage the state senate to move this bill as is with no amendments.

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