According to a press release from the State Representative Frank Dermody, House Democratic leader, every Democratic legislator in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives voted against the liquor privatization bill, saying it end up increasing confusion and costing consumers more money.
Dermody said the Republican-authored bill would result in job losses, high liquor prices, decreased product selection and greater problems for law enforcement in combating underage drinking.
He noted that Democrats tried to amend the bill Wednesday to improve and enhance, rather than discard, the existing system of alcohol sales. The amendment was rejected by the Republican majority. He said Democrats want more convenience for consumers, not more confusion.
He added the democrats do support flexible pricing and longer store hours on Sundays, as well as putting more wine and spirits shops inside or next to grocery stores.
