PENNSYLVANIA — The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) recently released unaudited financial results for the fiscal year 2022-23, showing a significant increase in wine and spirits sales which totaled $3.15 billion. This figure marks an increase of $133 million or 4.5% compared to the previous fiscal year.
However, despite the notable increase in sales, the PLCB reported a net income of $260.8 million for the year, reflecting a decrease of $70.1 million or 21% compared to the prior fiscal year. The PLCB attributed this decline in net income primarily to increases in the board’s pension and workers’ compensation obligations.
Despite the drop in net income, the PLCB made significant contributions to state and local governments and other beneficiaries, amounting to $869.7 million for the fiscal year. The largest portion of these contributions, over $813.5 million, went to the General Fund which supports various public services including Pennsylvania’s schools, health and human services programs, law enforcement, and public safety initiatives.
The General Fund contributions were broken down into $450.8 million in liquor tax, $177.6 million in state sales tax, and $185.1 million in cash transfers.
Additional contributions made by the PLCB during the fiscal year included $32.3 million to the Pennsylvania State Police for liquor control enforcement efforts, $11.5 million in local sales taxes to Philadelphia and Allegheny counties, $4.3 million in licensing fees returned to local municipalities, and $5.2 million to the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs.
In support of Pennsylvania’s beer and wine industries, the PLCB authorized $1.8 million in grants during the fiscal year 2022-23. Moreover, nearly $1.7 million was awarded in alcohol education grants to reduce underage and dangerous drinking.
The PLCB operates as the only commonwealth enterprise fund whose financials are separately reported in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. The fiscal year 2022-23 covered the period from July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023.
These results provide a snapshot of the PLCB’s operations and financial performance over the past fiscal year, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities faced by this critical state agency in managing Pennsylvania’s liquor industry. Despite the decrease in net income, the PLCB’s significant contributions to the General Fund and other beneficiaries underscore its essential role in supporting various public services throughout the Commonwealth.
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