Statement from the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States
“Hundreds of Delaware’s restaurants, taverns and bars were forced to close because of COVID-19 and are struggling to make ends meet,” said Jay Hibbard, DISCUS Vice President of State Government Relations. “Extending cocktails to-go will provide a much-needed source of stability and revenue for these local hospitality businesses as they begin to recover. We thank the House for acting and encourage the Senate to do the same by passing this measure swiftly and supporting Delaware’s hospitality industry.”
Background
The bill, HB 349, allows for the sale of cocktails to-go from restaurants, taverns and bars until March 31, 2021. DISCUS sent a letter the Delaware Senate Banking, Business and Insurance Committee urging the Senate to act.
Currently, 33 states plus the District of Columbia are allowing restaurants and/or bars to sell cocktails to-go, bottled spirits to-go or both. Some states, including Texas, Florida, Ohio, Oklahoma, Iowa and the District of Columbia, are considering making these policies permanent.
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.