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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2019 - 2020
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | July 9, 2019 09:47 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Judy Ward |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Expand Eligible Entities for Special Occasion Permits |
| I am introducing legislation amending the Liquor Code by expanding the list of eligible entities who can receive a special occasion permit. Under current law, various eligible entities (i.e., a library, a museum, art council, nonprofit organization whose purpose is to raise funds for research and treatment of cystic fibrosis) may apply to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) to receive a Special Occasion Permit (SOP). Upon payment of a fee set by the PLCB, each permit may only be used for six consecutive or nonconsecutive days, or ten consecutive days during a calendar year. The purpose of a SOP is to provide the eligible entity with a means of raising funds for itself. The permit allows an entity to sell alcohol during fundraising events. The availability of these permits is essential for organizations that utilize the event profits to fill their budget and operate. My measure expands the definition of an “eligible entity” to include a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in a city of the third class in a county of the fifth class whose mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through advocacy, education, support and socialization and that has been in existence for over 60 years. This added language would enable The Arc of Blair County, which has provided vital services and programs in the community for individuals with disabilities and their family since 1954, to qualify for a special occasion permit and give additional fundraising opportunities to help them operate and continue to provide critical services. Please join me in cosponsoring this important legislation. |
Introduced as SB815