Repealing the act of June 9, 1936 (Sp.Sess.1, P.L.13, No.4), entitled "An act imposing an emergency State tax on liquor, as herein defined, sold by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board; providing for the collection and payment of such tax; and imposing duties upon the Department of Revenue and the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board."
Impact
The implications of HB2142 may have considerable effects on state revenue, as the emergency state tax on liquors has historically contributed to the General Fund. While proponents of the repeal may argue for the reduction of burdens on consumers and businesses, there are concerns about the loss of a steady revenue stream for state operations. The discussions around the potential loss of funds could ignite debates regarding alternative means of generating revenue to fill the gap left by the repeal. Moreover, the absence of this tax could encourage new business opportunities and possibly lower prices for consumers.
Summary
House Bill 2142 aims to repeal the act from June 9, 1936, which imposed an emergency state tax on liquor sold by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board. The bill focuses on eliminating the tax that has been a source of revenue for the state for many decades. By repealing this act, HB2142 intends to streamline the regulatory environment surrounding liquor sales within Pennsylvania, potentially aligning it with contemporary fiscal strategies and market needs. This legislative move signals a shift in the state's priorities regarding taxation on alcoholic beverages and the operational dynamics of the Liquor Control Board.
Contention
Opponents of HB2142 might express concerns over the financial repercussions for programs and services funded through the revenue generated by the liquor tax. Voting on the bill may showcase a division among legislators, reflecting broader ideological differences regarding taxation and regulation of alcohol within the state. While some legislators may be advocating for economic freedom and less government intervention, others might argue that the bill overlooks the historical rationale for liquor taxation and its role in state funding. As discussions unfold, potential amendments or stipulations could arise in order to address these contentious points.
In Pennsylvania Liquor Stores, further providing for sales by Pennsylvania Liquor Stores; and, in licenses and regulations and liquor, alcohol and malt and brewed beverages, further providing for malt and brewed beverages manufacturers', distributors' and importing distributors' licenses.
Repealing the act of May 11, 1921 (P.L.479, No.225), entitled "An act imposing a State tax on anthracite coal; providing for the assessment and collection thereof; and providing penalties for the violation of this act."
Providing for temporary operational and financial assistance; and imposing duties on the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, the Pennsylvania State Police and the Office of State Treasurer.
Providing for the Pennsylvania Amber Alert System, the Missing Endangered Person Advisory System and the Green Alert System and for duties of the Pennsylvania State Police; assessing costs; providing for immunity and penalties; and making a repeal.
Directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study and establish an advisory committee to determine the impact on Pennsylvania taxpayers of Pennsylvania State Police full or partial police services for municipalities that do not maintain full police coverage.
Authorizing the Department of General Services, with the approval of the Governor, to grant and convey to Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority certain lands situate in the City of Harrisburg, Dauphin County; authorizing the transfer of an easement interest in lands for a portion of the Project 70 lands owned by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, known as Lake Winola Access, in Overfield Township, Wyoming County, to the Department of Transportation; authorizing the Department of General Services, with the approval of the Governor and the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, to convey to Tioga County a tract of land, and to accept a tract of land from Tioga County, both tracts being located in Charleston Township, Tioga County; and authorizing the Department of General Services, on behalf of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, with the approval of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Governor, to grant and convey to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, solely for the use of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, a parcel in Lehigh Township, Carbon County, in exchange for a tract partly in Nesquehoning Borough and partly in Lehigh Township, Carbon County, to be conveyed to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, acting by and through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and added to Lehigh Gorge State Park.