<a href="https://reason.com/2025/07/28/pennsylvanias-liquor-monopoly-is-imposing-a-new-fee-that-will-cost-15-million-per-year/" target="_blank">View original image source</a>.
Brace yourself, Pennsylvania drinkers! The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board just decided to squeeze your wallet a little tighter with a new $1 “bailment fee” on all alcohol packages starting in January 2026. This isn’t just a drop in the bucket; it’s projected to cost alcohol producers at least $15 million a year! If producers have their way, you might just find that extra dollar popping up in your tab soon enough.
Critics are furious, calling out the PLCB for its hasty approval of this fee. Apparently, they had just two days to react before the PLCB made its move. It kind of feels like being ambushed at a party when the bartender suddenly announces drink prices just jumped! Did we accidentally wander into a B-movie about government oversight gone wrong?
To make matters worse, the fee hits producers unevenly. A cozy night in with a four-pack of cocktails now costs the same to ship as an entire case of wine. Think about that next time you’re choosing your drink for the evening! So, if you think you see your favorite cocktail getting more costly, you’re not imagining things. What’s next—‘layaway’ for your favorite beverages?
What do you think—should Pennsylvania ditch this liquor monopoly and let the free market reign? Sound off in the comments!
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