Kulik: House passes legislation to provide relief for restaurant industry

Bill includes extension for safekeeping liquor licenses

HARRISBURG, Oct. 28 – State Rep. Anita Kulik, D-Allegheny, announced the PA House has passed H.B. 425, legislation that includes her initiative to relax some requirements for holding a liquor licenses in safekeeping to provide needed assistance to restaurants struggling during the pandemic.

“Safekeeping licenses became a lifeline for business owners who have either had to close their doors or had trouble reopening due to the financial instability of the pandemic,” said Kulik, who is a member of the House Liquor Control Committee. “By offering license holders an extension on safekeeping, we’re giving them more time to regroup and consider their options in moving forward with their business.”

Kulik said H.B. 425 was amended to include, from a bill she introduced earlier this year, an additional year of safekeeping, which would begin at the license’s renewal after Dec. 31, 2021, provided the licensee submits the renewal application when it is due.

The legislation also includes provisions that remove barriers for outdoor dining, proposed by state Rep. Dan Deasy, D-Allegheny, and expand off-site catering permits, proposed by state Rep. Napoleon Nelson, D-Montgomery.

House Bill 425 has passed the House and the Senate and is currently awaiting the governor’s signature.