HARRISBURG – To provide an important measure of financial relief to restaurants and taverns impacted by COVID-19, Senator Judy Ward (R-30) is calling for the Tavern Gaming License renewal fee to be suspended for one year.
Many licensees were shut down or had limited operations during the pandemic, and the financial fallout has left many businesses struggling to survive. Ward said she will introduce legislation to suspend the $1,000 renewal fee for Tavern Gaming Licenses for one year to remove another expense these owners struggle to afford. A Tavern Gaming License can be held by a restaurant liquor licensee, Hotel Liquor licensee, Privately-owned public golf course liquor licensee, and a brewery pub licensee.
“Many restaurants and taverns have been devastated by the governor’s shutdown orders, and these business owners and employees are barely hanging on to their livelihoods,” Ward said. “Suspending the Tavern Gaming License renewal fee would be welcome news for the businesses that have been impacted during the coronavirus pandemic.”
Ward plans to introduce the bill with Senator Doug Mastriano (R-33). The legislation would apply to all 69 of the state’s tavern gaming licensees.
CONTACT: Cheryl Schriner (717) 787-5490