First state to make the temporary measure in response to COVID-19 permanent
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds today signed legislation, HF 2540, making cocktails to-go permanent. This marks the first state in the nation to make permanent the temporary economic relief measure put in place in response to COVID-19.
“Iowa’s hospitality businesses have suffered greatly due to the harsh financial impacts of COVID-19,” said Dale Szyndrowski, DISCUS Vice President of State Government Relations. “Making cocktails to-go permanent provides a much-needed source of stability and revenue for local bars, restaurants and distilleries as they begin to recover. We thank Governor Reynolds and the legislature for supporting local businesses and their employees by making Iowa the first state to make a temporary cocktails to-go measure permanent. Iowa is leading the way and serving as a model for other states looking for innovative ways to boost struggling hospitality businesses.”
Background
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. Other states, including Texas, Florida, Ohio, Oklahoma and the District of Columbia, are considering making their 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.