HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Pennsylvanians will soon be able to purchase canned alcoholic drinks, known as ready-to-drink cocktails, from a broader range of retailers following the approval of new legislation on Thursday.
The state Senate passed the bill with a 32-17 vote, sending it to Governor Josh Shapiro's desk for approval.
The new law allows approximately 12,000 licensed establishments, including restaurants, bars, beer distributors, grocery stores, and convenience stores, to obtain a special permit to sell these canned drinks. Previously, only state-owned wine and liquor stores were permitted to sell them.
The legislation restricts sales to before 11 p.m. and limits the alcohol content of the drinks to below 12.5%.
The popularity of ready-to-drink canned cocktails has surged in recent years. Legislative analysts estimate that the growing sales will generate about $35 million in state revenue by the 2028-2029 fiscal year.
