The Governor of Pennsylvania has banned the sale of alcohol during the coronavirus pandemic. The Governor of New Jersey has not. That has set up an interesting scenario where Pennsylvanians are now flocking across the Delaware River to replenish their alcohol shelves.
With a new prohibition across the Keystone State, signed into law by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board that leaves residents crossing the border.
“This was a tremendously difficult decision to make, and we understand the disruption our store closures will have on consumers and licensees across the commonwealth,” Board Chairman Tim Holden said. “But in these uncertain and unprecedented times, the public health crisis and mitigation effort must take priority over the sale of wine and spirits, as the health and safety of our employees and communities is paramount.”
It’s not just New Jersey either, they are also crossing into Delaware in the southern part of the state.
While business is booming now for New Jersey border liquor stores, Pennsylvania police are warning the public that going to Delaware and New Jersey could possibly put you in violation of those state’s travel restrictions.
Murphy’s Law, restrictions put in place by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy doesn’t exactly cover this practice, but local police have now been cracking down hard on violations in recent days.
Photo by Wil Stewart@wilstewart3