During a hearing today before the Kentucky Senate Licensing, Occupations and Administrative Regulations Committee, the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) submitted testimony in support of SB 67, which would make cocktails to-go permanent from restaurants and bars with a food purchase. The measure passed out of the committee unanimously.

The testimony on SB 67, submitted by DISCUS Senior Vice President of State Government Relations Jay Hibbard, highlighted the important revenue cocktails to-go creates for hospitality businesses suffering under the harsh economic impacts of COVID-19.

“The hospitality industry, which represents thousands of jobs in all 120 of Kentucky’s counties, has been one of the most heavily impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Hibbard said about SB 67. “Job losses have been in the thousands, and many long-established restaurants have closed their doors permanently. The temporary approval of cocktails to-go has provided a meaningful source of revenue to the many struggling hospitality businesses across the state. Extending those privileges will help these businesses recover while providing increased consumer convenience.”

Background:

Currently, more than 30 states plus the District of Columbia are allowing restaurants and/or bars to sell cocktails to-go. Iowa and Ohio have both made cocktails to-go permanent, and more than 20 states are considering allowing, extending or making 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.