Measure will provide long-term support to struggling hospitality businesses
Today, the Arizona House passed HB 2773, a bill to permanently allow cocktails to-go from restaurants, bars and distilleries – a move that will increase consumer convenience and support hospitality businesses devastated by COVID-19. The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated Arizona’s hospitality businesses, and it will take years for them to fully recover,” said Adam Smith, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Vice President of State Government Relations. “Cocktails to-go has already proven to be a critical part of their survival in many states across the U.S., and Arizona businesses deserve the same opportunity. Local bars, restaurants and distilleries are desperate for a sustained source of revenue, and cocktails to-go would provide a critical lifeline. We thank the House for passing this measure and encourage the Senate to pass cocktails to-go quickly in support of Arizona’s hospitality businesses.”
Currently, more than 30 states plus the District of Columbia are allowing restaurants and/or bars to sell cocktails to-go.
“As an owner of both establishments with a Series 6 and Series 12 liquor licenses, each adversely affected by the pandemic, I would like to remind the legislature of how important ‘to-go’ has become to our industry,” said Grant Krueger, owner of Union Hospitality Group (Tucson). “We have seen a massive increase in sales of both food and beverages to-go, both directly through our website and in third-party delivery apps. HB 2773 would go a long way in helping modernize Arizona State Liquor Law to finally align with our digital economy. This new law would be helpful to restaurants and bars alike, allowing us the opportunity to capture sales and help us further weather the pandemic, despite the many restrictions currently placed upon our industry.”
Background:
Iowa and Ohio have both made cocktails to-go permanent, and more than 30 states are considering allowing, extending or making permanent cocktails to-go measures.
The distilled spirits industry is committed to responsibility and encourages moderation for adults who choose to drink alcohol. Cocktails to-go are intended for home consumption. Laws governing alcohol consumption must always be observed.