GOVERNOR RENDELL NOT OPPOSED TO DIRECT SHIPMENT AFTER ALL

Gov. Rendell of Pennsylvania is now contradicting statements made by his spokeswoman, Kate Phillips, last week who claimed the administration wanted wine shipments to go through State Stores. Rendell said yesterday he would support direct wine shipments as long as there is a minimal loss of state revenue. “I don’t believe it will produce more underage drinking,” he said. “Very frankly, it’s a revenue issue.” Much of the state’s revenue comes from their 6% sales and 18% liquor tax as well as a 30% charge towards distributors. The administration will not issue an official stance until further research has been conducted.