PENNSYLVANIA, USA — The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) announced that they will start accepting applications for ready-to-drink cocktails (RTDC) permits to be available to retail liquor licensees.
With the new permits, authorized permittees will be able to sell spirit-based RTDC ranging from 0.5% alcohol beverage by volume to 12.5% ABV in 16-ounce containers starting Sept. 16.
Permits will be available to retail liquor licensees eligible for wine-expanded permits including restaurants, hotels, supermarkets and convenience stores. Distributors and importing distributors of malt and brewed beverages can also apply, but all have to be certified in the Responsible Alcohol Management Program.
The law comes into effect after Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro signed bipartisan legislation earlier this summer as a part of the 2024-25 budget.
“Thanks to our bipartisan budget, you will soon be able to go get ready-to-drink cocktails – some made right here in Pennsylvania – at places like grocery stores and gas stations," said Shapiro in a press release. “Today's announcement opening the new permit applications means we're one step closer to making that a reality. This is what real freedom looks like, and we did it in a way that protects taxpayers and supports our state workers."
Before the law takes effect, the PLCB will review hundreds to thousands of applications throughout the state.
