Measure would support hospitality businesses struggling to cope with harsh economic impacts of COVID-19

The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) today applauded West Virginia State Senator Ryan Weld for introducing legislation (SB 347) to allow cocktails to-go – a move that will help support hospitality businesses devastated by COVID-19.

“West Virginia hospitality businesses have struggled to cope with the harsh economic impacts of COVID-19, and their path to economic recovery will last long beyond the end of the pandemic,” said David Wojnar, DISCUS Senior Vice President and Head of State Public Policy. “Cocktails to-go measures have proven to be a critical lifeline for devastated restaurants and bars across the U.S., and it’s well past time West Virginia businesses were given the same opportunity. Cocktails to-go provides local bars and restaurants with a sustained source of much-needed revenue as they get back on their feet. We applaud Senator Weld for taking action to support hospitality businesses and look forward to seeing this bill move through the legislature.”

The bill requires cocktails to-go to be in a sealed, tamper-evident container.

Background:

In response to the pandemic, more than 30 states plus the District of Columbia are currently allowing restaurants and/or bars to sell cocktails to-go, bottled spirits to-go or both. West Virginia is not included in that list.

Iowa and Ohio have now made cocktails to-go permanent, and more than 25 states have recently filed legislation to allow, expand or make permanent this consumer- and business-friendly measure.

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.