Pennsylvania House Bill HB1049

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/28/23
• Refer: 4/28/23

Caption

In licenses and regulations and liquor, alcohol and malt and brewed beverages, further providing for unlawful acts relative to liquor, malt and brewed beverages and licensees.

Impact

By revising Section 493 of the Liquor Code, HB 1049 reinforces the prohibition against employing minors under certain age restrictions in the context of liquor service. The new regulations specifically state that minors under eighteen cannot serve alcoholic beverages while also allowing certain exceptions for those between sixteen and eighteen to perform limited duties, such as serving food or clearing tables. This amendment is designed to align local employment practices with state laws and enhance protections for younger individuals in the workplace.

Summary

House Bill 1049 amends the Pennsylvania Liquor Code, specifically targeting the regulations surrounding the employment of minors by liquor licensees. The bill introduces provisions that govern the circumstances under which minors may or may not be employed in settings that serve alcoholic beverages. It aims to clarify and adjust the existing laws to ensure compliance with labor standards and create a safer environment both for minors and patrons of licensed premises.

Sentiment

The response to HB 1049 has been largely supportive among lawmakers who emphasize the need for maintaining safety standards regarding youth employment in alcohol-serving establishments. However, there are concerns about the operational feasibility for some licensees who may rely on part-time minor labor to meet staffing needs during peak hours. Overall, the sentiment appears to commend the attempts at safeguarding minor welfare while addressing the employment challenges in the liquor service industry.

Contention

Notably, discussion around HB 1049 has included debates over the balance between protecting minors and providing opportunities for youth employment. Critics express worries that too strict of regulations could limit job availability for young workers in the service industry. Conversely, supporters argue that ensuring minors are not exposed to potentially harmful environments is paramount, reinforcing the need for a responsible approach to employing youth in settings involving alcohol.