Pa. Senate passes bill that could add 10 extra hours to bar happy hours

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WTAJ) — The Pennsylvania Senate has passed a bill that would allow for happy hours to be expanded.

House Bill 829 , introduced by Representative Matthew Gergely (D-Allegheny), highlighted that since COVID-19, food service industries and liquor licensees are struggling to grow and thrive. In order to help the business grow, Gergely argued that owners need more flexibility when it comes to hiring employees, happy hours and licensing.

The Pennsylvania Licensed Beverage and Tavern Association (PLBTA) pushed for the legislation to be introduced, arguing that bar owners should have the opportunity to increase happy hours, create discounted combo meals that come with adult beverages and include the price of two drinks in any self-sponsored event.

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Historically, happy hours in Pa. were limited to 14 hours per week. However, HB 829 could increase that number to 24 hours per week. The PLBTA argues that this increase could help boost sales for bar owners by bringing in more customers each week.

Combo meals at bars and taverns that include alcoholic beverages are not allowed to be taxed under current law. However, HB 829 could change that and provide bars with marketing tools that would allow for discounts on patron meals that include adult drinks.

Both the Pa. House and Senate have signed and passed the bill, however, it must see a state vote before it is shipped off to Governor Josh Shapiro’s desk. The PLBTA has taken to social media to encourage Shapiro to sign the bill if and when it lands on his desk.

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