Measure heads to House for consideration
The California Senate unanimously passed SB 389, a bill to permanently allow cocktails to-go which would increase consumer convenience and support hospitality businesses devastated by COVID-19. The bill now heads to the House for consideration.
“Cocktails to-go have proved to be a vital economic lifeline for hospitality businesses across the U.S. and in California,” said Adam Smith, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Vice President of State Government Relations. “Now, Californians are one step closer to enjoying cocktails to-go on a permanent basis which would provide stability for the state’s hospitality businesses that have been devastated by COVID-19. Cocktails to-go will also increase convenience for adult consumers looking for alternative ways to safely enjoy their favorite cocktails at home. We encourage the California House to act quickly in passing this consumer- and business-friendly measure.”
Background:
More than 30 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 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.