Bill provides long-term support to struggling hospitality businesses
The Arizona legislature passed HB 2773, a bill to permanently allow cocktails to-go from restaurants, bars and distilleries which will increase consumer convenience and support hospitality businesses devastated by COVID-19. The bill heads to Governor Doug Ducey for his signature.
“Cocktails to-go has proved to be a vital economic lifeline for hospitality businesses across the U.S.,” said Adam Smith, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Vice President of State Government Relations. “Arizona businesses have been hit particularly hard and allowing cocktails to-go will provide much-needed relief. Making the measure permanent will also create certainty and stability for Arizona’s restaurants, bars and distilleries while increasing convenience for consumers. We thank the legislature for passing this business- and consumer-friendly measure and encourage Governor Ducey to sign this bill as soon as possible.”
Currently, 11 states plus the District of Columbia have made a COVID-era cocktails to-go measure permanent in an effort to help the struggling hospitality industry.
“In the restaurant and bar industry, innovation is key,” said Tommy Plato, owner of Kazimierz Wine & Whiskey Bar (Scottsdale). “Our customers’ preferences and tastes are changing faster than ever with more demand for customized experiences and craft ingredients. HB 2773 gives Series 6 licensees, like me, the ability to meet these changing customer preferences by creating a safe way to sell our craft cocktails to-go and for delivery. I applaud Rep. Weninger and other members of the legislature for bringing this critical piece of legislation forward.”
Background:
More than 35 states began allowing restaurants and/or bars to sell cocktails to-go as a COVID economic relief measure. Iowa, Ohio, Kentucky, Wisconsin, Montana, Arkansas, West Virginia, Georgia, Oklahoma, Texas, Florida and the District of Columbia have all made COVID-era cocktails to-go measures permanent. Dozens of other states are also considering legislation to extend or make 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.