Pittsburgh, PA — Amid ongoing efforts to rejuvenate local economies affected by the pandemic, Pennsylvania is set to extend and revise its liquor laws, potentially offering a lifeline to bars and restaurants across the state. The proposed legislation, which has cleared the state legislature and is awaiting the governor’s signature, aims to increase the permissible hours for happy hours from 14 to 24 hours per week, as well as make permanent certain pandemic-era provisions like expanded outdoor seating.
Len Semplice, proprietor of Redbeard’s Bar & Grill in Mount Washington and downtown Pittsburgh, hailed the legislative changes as a crucial development for the hospitality sector. “The adjustment in happy hours is long overdue,” Semplice said. “We are trained to manage service responsibly; extending these hours will help us significantly.”
The bill’s supporters argue that these adjustments will offer much-needed flexibility for establishments still grappling with the economic impacts of COVID-19. “It’s about adapting and finding new ways to attract customers,” Semplice added.
In addition to extending happy hour flexibility, the legislation also includes provisions for including cocktails in the price of admission for certain events and allowing more extensive outdoor service options. These changes reflect an industry-wide shift towards more adaptable service models.
Eugene Mangrum, operating partner at Shilith Gastro, also expressed optimism about the potential of extended happy hours to boost business, especially during later hours. “This can only be beneficial,” Mangrum noted. “It gives us the freedom to offer more to our guests at times that work for them.”
Bar manager Brett Sanders of Sienna Mercato on Penn Avenue, while not primarily focused on extending happy hours at his establishment, welcomed other aspects of the new legislation, particularly the ability to bundle drinks with event tickets. “These are changes that make sense for us and add value for our guests,” Sanders explained.
Customer reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with many anticipating that the relaxed regulations will enhance their social experiences. “It’s a win-win,” said Katie Schuett, enjoying an evening at Shiloh Gastro. “More flexible happy hours mean more reasons to unwind and connect with friends after work.”
The sentiment was echoed by Kennedy McKinney, a frequent patron at Sienna Mercato, who sees broader community benefits. “Enhanced nightlife and happier hours might just be what downtown Pittsburgh needs to keep the evening streets lively,” McKinney commented.
In addition to industry and customer approval, the legislation’s permanent allowance for expanded outdoor seating—a relic from the pandemic’s regulatory relaxations—has been praised for fostering a more vibrant and inclusive eating and drinking culture.
“This isn’t just about selling more drinks,” explained Mangrum. “It’s about creating spaces where people can come together safely and enjoyably. It helps the businesses, the customers, and the community at large.”
If signed into law, these changes will take effect 60 days following the governor’s approval, marking a significant turning point for an industry eager to recover and innovate.