UFCW Rejects Gov. Corbett's Cynical Political Ploy & Urges Support For PLCB Modernization

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Wendell W. Young IV, President, UFCW Local 1776 urged lawmakers to reject Gov. Corbett's cynical political ploy pitting the needs of school children against 5,000 family-sustaining jobs and, instead, instead support common-sense proposals to modernize the PLCB.

"The speech doesn't change a thing. This governor wants to put 5,000 PLCB employees - including 3,500 of our members – out of work. He wants to shut down 1,100 family owned distributors and jeopardize the 11,000 Pennsylvanians these businesses employ, all so he can boost his horrible poll numbers," Young said.

Young said that UFCW's members would also work with lawmakers to reject the governor's so-called pension 'solution' does not address the debt challenge and punishes hard-working Pennsylvanians.

"Our members as well as teachers and nurses across the state have kept their promise and paid their fair share every single paycheck. Now, rather than step up and lead, the governor wants to break the promise and renege on the bargain that our members have honored," Young said. "It's disgraceful."

Looking ahead, UFCW will continue to support modernization proposals, including expanded Sunday hours, adding more stores, allowing for the direct shipment of wine to consumers' homes, and greater flexibility for in procurement and personnel.

"These proposals have bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate and with good reason," Young said. "The bottom line is to improve customer convenience and generate more revenue."

Young noted that the PLCB generates almost $600 million annually for the Commonwealth in taxes and profits. The various modernization proposals would generate at least $75 million more annually for the state. Young reiterated his request to debate the governor in a series of town halls to be convened around the state.

"Once Pennsylvanians understand what the privateers will do to this state we're confident that lawmakers will reject the governor's cynical ploy of pitting 5,000 Pennsylvanians against the needs of our school children" Young said. "We welcome an open and honest debate."

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