Bill targets “Nuisance Bars” in PA

(Harrisburg) — Legislation to crack down on so-called “Nuisance Bars” is headed to Governor Tom Wolf’s desk.

The bill allows for tighter control of certain kinds of bars, including “Stop and Go” businesses.

Senator Vincent Hughes described the establishments the bill targets..

“Where they are selling alcohol, really loose operation, they’re opening up at 7:00 o’clock in the morning, 8:00 o’clock in the morning, they’re selling to all hours of the night.  They’re selling alcohol in styrofoam cups,” he said.

Many of the business are set up to look like convenience stores in order to circumvent state liquor laws.

Under the proposal, the Liquor Control Board could immediately suspend the operating authority of licensees whose establishments don’t meet certain license requirements — such as square footage and health licensing.    

Violations spotted by local authorities would also be actionable by the LCB.

*This story has been updated to clarify an updated portion of the bill.*