Today, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice signed HB 2505, an omnibus bill that contains a number of consumer-friendly measures including permitting cocktails to-go and home delivery of distilled spirits. West Virginia is the seventh state to make a COVID-era cocktails to-go measure permanent.
“We thank Governor Justice for allowing cocktails to-go and home delivery of distilled spirits – two measures that support hospitality businesses in West Virginia and increase consumer convenience,” said David Wojnar, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Senior Vice President and Head of State Public Policy. “Cocktails to-go and home delivery provide much-needed revenue for local businesses struggling under the harsh economic impacts of the pandemic. They also provide a safe alternative for consumers to support restaurants and bars while enjoying their favorite cocktails at home. We applaud the legislative leaders and supporters of these measures for their commitment to the retail and hospitality sectors and for growing West Virginia’s economy.”
Cocktails To-Go
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 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.
Home Delivery
Home delivery of distilled spirits from liquor stores and/or other off-premise retailers is currently allowed in more than 30 states plus D.C. Home delivery from restaurants and/or bars is allowed in 24 states plus D.C.
Home delivery is accompanied by the same safety protocols that all beverage alcohol purchases require by law including age verification to ensure underage persons do not illegally access alcohol and prohibitions on serving intoxicated patrons.
Commitment to Responsibility
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.