HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) has announced the return of more than $2.3 million in licensing fees to 1,365 municipalities across the state. This semi-annual return of funds underscores the PLCB’s commitment to supporting local government and community projects, providing municipalities with the flexibility to allocate resources according to their unique needs.
The PLCB, which regulates over 15,000 retail liquor licenses statewide, collects fees from various establishments, including restaurants, clubs, and hotels. These fees, which range from $125 to $700 depending on the type of license and the population size of the municipality, are collected as part of the annual license renewal or validation process. During the current dispersal period, fees paid between February 1 and July 31, 2024, are being distributed.
This financial return is distributed among a diverse group of local governments, including 56 cities, 541 boroughs, and 768 townships, with payments varying from as little as $50 to as much as $232,750. Such a distribution scheme reflects the varied scale and demographic composition of Pennsylvania’s municipalities, ensuring that both small and large communities receive support.
Over the past five fiscal years, the PLCB has returned nearly $17.5 million in licensing fees to local municipalities. This consistent influx of funds allows municipalities to address a wide range of local priorities, from infrastructure improvements and public safety initiatives to community enrichment projects.
The impact of these funds is multifaceted. For smaller municipalities, these returns can be a vital part of their budget, enabling them to undertake projects that may otherwise lack funding. Larger municipalities, on the other hand, can use the funds to enhance existing services or to innovate new programs that improve the quality of life for residents.
Furthermore, the return of licensing fees highlights the role of the PLCB in not only regulating the state’s liquor industry but also in contributing positively to community development. By redistributing these funds, the PLCB ensures that the economic benefits of the liquor industry are shared across the Commonwealth, fostering a sense of shared prosperity.
As local governments receive these funds, they are poised to make impactful decisions that can lead to tangible improvements in their communities. The flexibility in allocation allows each municipality to prioritize spending in a way that best meets the needs of its residents, whether it be enhancing public services, investing in local infrastructure, or supporting community programs.
Complete lists of license fee distributions by county and municipality are available on the PLCB website.
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