PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The Pennsylvania State House was expected to take up a bill Monday that would prevent municipalities from shutting down a lemonade stand because of a lack of a permit.
Central Pennsylvania Republican Representative John Hershey calls his legislation the "Free to Lemonade Stand" bill.
He explained that it extends beyond lemonade stands, to kids who shovel driveways or mow lawns, but are forced to shut down because they don't have a permit.
"We've had examples of that happening in Pennsylvania, particularly in suburban areas, where a municipality or an HOA might crack down on these minor-owned businesses," Hershey said.
Hershey revealed he is surprised by the amount of support his bill is getting, and how many colleagues in the House of Representatives have told him they have had similar issues in their districts.
His legislation has limits. A permit could be required if the minor makes more than $5,000, or operates for more than 84 days.
While it would exempt them from any municipal business licensing, it would not exempt them from state permits with the Department of Health or the Department of Agriculture.
"I think this is just a good opportunity to support our young children entrepreneurs," said Hershey.
