PITTSBURGH – A state representative has proposed allowing Pennsylvania grocery and convenience stores to sell hard liquor in addition to wine and beer, KDKA-TV reports. “This simply provides more choice for consumers in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” Rep. Mike Reese said of the bill he sponsored. Reese’s proposal, which should soon be before the entire House, would let any restaurant, bar, supermarket or grocery store with an “R” license from the state Liquor Control Board purchase a $2,000 permit to sell up to three liters of hard liquor per customer.

“I believe it will ultimately create that one-stop shop that so many of my [constituents] talk about, a place where they can buy their beer, wine,and spirits without having to go to three different locations,” Reese said.

But the measure has stiff opposition. “The alcohol content is a lot higher. I don’t believe we need access everywhere for it,” said Rep. Paul Costa, who chairs the House Liquor Committee. Costa also expressed concern about the impact on local State Stores. “It’s 5,000 jobs that we have in our state right now that deals with the State Store system,” he said.

Reese countered that he only anticipates 400 locations to apply for liquor-to-go permits, much like what happened with wine-to-go. The Senate is considering a similar bill. However, Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf isn’t behind the change, especially because the state has yet to fully implement the liquor reforms passed last year.