Statement from the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States
“We applaud the Delaware Legislature for acting swiftly to support local hospitality businesses by extending cocktails to-go,” said Jay Hibbard, DISCUS Vice President of State Government Relations. “Restaurants, bars and taverns are in desperate need of stability and increased cash flow as they work to recover from the harsh economic impacts of COVID-19. Cocktails to-go provide a critical revenue source for struggling local businesses. We urge Governor Carney to sign this measure into law as soon as possible.”
Background
The bill, HB 349, allows for the sale of cocktails to-go from restaurants, taverns and bars until March 31, 2021. The measure passed the House on June 18 and the Senate this evening. DISCUS sent a letter last week to the Delaware Senate Banking, Business and Insurance Committee urging the Senate to act.
Currently, more than 30 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.