Corbett wants LCB changes this year

HARRISBURG — Gov. Tom Corbett said today he wants lawmakers to pass legislation this year authorizing sale of the state liquor stores to a private operator, and indicated a study of divestiture is getting under way.

Corbett spoke to the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania this morning.

Selling sell liquor and wine through 620 state-run retail stores is a "conflict of interest" because the state enforces liquor violations, Corbett said.

He contends selling liquor is not a "core function" of government. Pennsylvania privatizes about half of its alcohol sales with beer sold at bars, distributorships and some supermarkets, Corbett said.

"Should you, as commissioners, be selling gasoline? No. Should you, as commissioners, be selling pharmaceuticals? No," he said.

Corbett did not include anticipated money from the sale in his budget proposal.

He said policymakers need to focus on budget matters and on the $4.2 billion deficit for 2011-12. Lawmakers must pass a budget by June 30.

Stephen Miskin, a spokesman for House Republicans, said he's not surprised Corbett wants the Legislature to move ahead with the proposal.

"We always sort of figured it would be this year. It would take awhile to implement it," he said.

House Majority Leader Mike Turzai, R-Bradford Woods, who introduced a divestiture bill, is working on new legislation.

Corbett noted state officials commissioned studies on the issue over the years and he said: "I believe we are starting to direct another study be done." His staff did not know details.

Most of Corbet's address dealt with the deficit and choices he had to make when drafting his proposed budget.