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Pa. Senate OKs Bill To Allow Sports Venues To Sell Liquor In General Seating Areas

PITTSBURGH (KDKA/AP) - The Pennsylvania Senate has approved legislation that would allow beer distributors to sell beer for off-site consumption in any amount, including six-packs and growlers.

The bill, approved Monday, would let manufacturers ship up to 192 ounces of beer to consumers each month.

Consumers would also be able to buy mixed drinks at the state's sporting venues that currently sell beer.

KDKA talked to Penguins' fans at PPG Paints Paints Arena about the legislation that would allow stadiums and arenas that already sell beer to also sell liquor in general seating areas.

All three Pittsburgh venues already serve spirits on club and suite levels.

Suza Bradrick said she would definitely purchase mixed drinks at Penguins games.

"I would, absolutely. It would bring in more money," she said.

But Deena Cota had concerns.

"There [are] other ways to gain or maintain tax revenue," said Cota. "We brought kids here tonight. You want to make it as family-friendly as possible."

Mike Rapach added, "I don't see any difference between mixed drinks, wine, beer. It's how much you consume."

But it's that rate of consumption that has some folks worried.

"Because I think you are going to see a lot of disorderly activity," said Marcia Ellermeyer.

Dan Hoelke agreed, saying, "Well, I come to the sporting events to watch the game, not to drink. That's just my opinion."

Here are statements from all three teams:

Steelers: "We already offer spirits on club and suite levels at Heinz Field. We consistently look into ways to improve our fan experiences and would be interested to see if this was a right fit for other areas in Heinz Field, given it was done in a responsible manner."

Penguins: "Over the years, our fans have regularly indicated to us that they would like to have spirits available in general areas of the arena. We are always supportive of initiatives that would allow us to provide these kinds of amenities requested by our fans."

Pirates: "We do serve liquor at the ballpark in designated areas. We would be interested in exploring the idea of adding additional options for our fans to purchase mixed drinks in a responsible manner."

The legislation now heads to the state House of Representatives.

A spokesman for Wolf was non-committal Monday night on whether the governor would sign the bill.

The state enacted sweeping changes to its liquor laws over the summer, including allowing grocery stores to sell wine.

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