The court said Sheetz's interpretation of the law would expand the character of retail dispenser beer licenses.[image-nocss]
"While a policy determination in this regard may well be accomplished by our legislature, it is not our role to sanction such a momentous transformation," Justice Max Baer wrote.
The ruling was a victory for the Malt Beverage Distributors Association of Pennsylvania, which represents retailers that sell beer by the case or keg, said AP. Association lawyer Bob Hoffman said state regulators now should review whether other license holders are following the rules.
"The court has recognized that there are some discrete distinctions between what different players in the beer distribution system can do, and what Sheetz was trying to do here improperly infringed into what is the domain of the beer distributors," Hoffman said.
Sheetz spokesperson Mike Cortez had no immediate comment.
For a review of the case and to read the majority opinion, click here.
Andclick here for previous CSP Daily News coverage.
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