Source: Pennsylvania Lawmakers Make Progress On Liquor Talks
By Tony Romeo
HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) - Legislative insiders claimed progress was made yesterday on at least two major issues as just four days remain before the legislature's scheduled summer recess on Sunday.
After appearing earlier in the day to be stymied, Erik Arneson, spokesman for the Senate majority leader, claimed after hours of closed-door discussions among Republican members, progress was made toward language on a bill to overhaul the sale of liquor in Pennsylvania.
"On Wednesday in caucus we discussed a number of potential amendments to the bill," Arneson said. "Members were able to reach -- I can't say 'agreement' at this point -- but there were good conversations that lead us to be optimistic that we'll be able to put a bill together in the Senate that can get 26 votes."
Meanwhile, the House speaker reported progress on transportation funding and other outstanding issues. Other matters still hanging in the balance include pension reform, another issue the governor favors, and Medicaid expansion, which he does not, along with the state budget.
