Legislation to expand event permits statewide introduced in PA House
Would let all Pennsylvania municipalities expand alcohol sales during World Cup and national anniversary celebrations
Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz April 29, 2026 | 9:31 AM
HARRISBURG, April 29 – As Pennsylvania prepares for a busy tourism season, including major celebrations of America’s 250th anniversary, recognition of the anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, and hosting several World Cup games, state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, D-Berks, has introduced legislation that would allow all municipalities across Pennsylvania to expand their event permits during this period.
The bill, H.B. 2471, would replicate on a statewide level similar bipartisan legislation, Act 8 of 2026, which allows bars in Philadelphia to continue serving alcohol until 4 a.m. from June 11 to July 20, 2026. Act 8 was signed into law by Gov. Josh Shapiro two weeks after being introduced.
“Between the World Cup and America 250 celebrations, southeastern Pennsylvania alone is expected to generate $2 billion to $3 billion,” said Cepeda-Freytiz, “However, tourism will not just be contained in Philadelphia – tourists will be visiting World Cup Fan Zones in Reading, Scranton and Pittsburgh, while also visiting landmarks such as Valley Forge and Gettysburg.
“If we are providing one municipality with the tools to expand its local economy, I believe every municipality should be able to prime their local events and businesses accordingly. We are set for a tourism season that will welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors, so we should act to provide the greatest experience that every part of Pennsylvania can offer.”
The permits would allow businesses in good standing to pay a $500 application fee to stay open and continue serving alcohol until 4 a.m. as opposed to the current limit of 2 a.m. to accommodate soccer games held in different time zones.
This legislation, similar to the already-passed law for Philadelphia, would only apply during the one-month period including the World Cup. House Bill 2471 has not yet been assigned to a committee for consideration.