BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Starting today, Pennsylvanians can purchase ready-to-drink cocktails (RTDs) like High Noon and Philadelphia-based Stateside Vodka at grocery stores, gas stations, and other licensed establishments.
This change comes as Act 86 of 2024 goes into effect, following its signing into law by Governor Josh Shapiro on July 17.
In addition, a new happy hour law, signed on July 15, went into effect last Friday.
It allows bars and restaurants to extend their happy hours from 14 to 24 per week, giving patrons more opportunities to enjoy their favorite venues.
RTDs are pre-mixed beverages made from distilled liquor, packaged by manufacturers in containers of up to 16 ounces.
Their alcohol content can range from 0.5% to 12.5%, offering consumers a variety of options for on-the-go enjoyment.
Governor Shapiro celebrated the passage of these laws, emphasizing their convenience for consumers: “Thanks to this budget, you’ll be able to get your favorite hard seltzers and canned cocktails at the grocery store or gas station. That’s real freedom.” he said on Twitter.
In the Lehigh Valley, GIANT grocery stores were among the first to have RTDs on their shelves as the law took effect today, offering local shoppers various options.
Across Pennsylvania, stores with RTD permits can sell these beverages to-go until 11:00 p.m. on Mondays through Saturdays and until 9:00 p.m. on Sundays for distributors.
Consumers can purchase up to 192 ounces of these libations in a single transaction.
Establishments must obtain a permit to sell RTDs.
The permit requires a $2,500 application fee and an annual renewal fee of 2% of the RTDs purchased for off-premises consumption.
With these new regulations, Pennsylvanians can more conveniently enjoy their favorite ready-to-drink cocktails just in time for the upcoming holiday season.
