The Colorado House today unanimously passed HB 1027, a measure to extend cocktails to-go from distillery pubs, restaurants and bars for five years. The bill also extends outdoor communal dining areas in an effort to support the state’s struggling hospitality industry during COVID-19.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated Colorado’s hospitality businesses, and it will take years for them to fully recover,” said Kristi Brown, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Senior Director of State Government Relations. “Cocktails to-go has already proven to be a vital part of their survival during COVID-19 and will provide increased stability in the years to come. Local restaurants, bars and distillery pubs are desperate for a sustained source of revenue and extending cocktails to-go provides a critical lifeline as they get back on their feet. We thank the House for passing this measure and encourage the Senate to extend cocktails to-go to provide certainty for Colorado businesses.”
Background:
According to the Colorado Restaurant Association:
- 87% of restaurants are making revenue from alcohol to-go and delivery
- 1 in 5 restaurants say they are making significant revenue
- 85% of Colorado adults say they favor making alcohol to-go and delivery permanent
- 1 in 3 Colorado adults say they purchased takeout or delivery alcohol in the last week
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.