Montana Governor Greg Gianforte signed HB 226 on April 14 making cocktails to-go permanent in the state. This measure supports hospitality businesses devastated by COVID-19 and provides increased convenience to consumers.
“Cocktails to-go provided a much-needed lifeline for struggling hospitality businesses and prevented the permanent closure of many in Montana,” said Adam Smith, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Senior Director of State Government Relations. “Now that this measure is permanent, hospitality businesses will have increased stability as they begin the long path to recovery. We applaud the Montana Legislature and Governor Gianforte for supporting local businesses and for providing increased convenience to consumers.”
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 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.