Recent Changes to the Liquor Code

On June 25, 2010, Governor Rendell signed Act 35 of 2010 (previously House Bill 48) into law. Act 35 amends various provisions of the Liquor Code.

Five new eligible entities were added to the list of entities eligible for a Special Occasion Permit (a limited temporary license) to dispense alcoholic beverages. The new eligible entities are as follows:

1. A club recognized by Rotary International and located in a county of the fourth class;
2. A non-profit organization located in boroughs within third class counties that promotes mushrooms while supporting local and regional charities;
3. A non-profit organization whose purpose is to protect the architectural heritage of second class townships and which has been recognized as such by municipal resolution; and
4. A brewery which has been issued a license to manufacture malt or brewed beverages and has been in existence for at least 100 years.
5. A non-profit organization which is located in counties of the second class and whose purpose is the education and promotion of American history.

A holder of a hotel liquor license issued before September 1, 1949 ("grandfathered" status) can now use its former sleeping rooms as licensed storage areas or licensed serving areas, or both.

The new law also changes some interlocking business prohibitions. An officer or member of a licensed privately owned golf club license is now permitted to have an interest in a limited winery license.