Bill heads to governor’s desk for signature
The Kansas Legislature today passed HB 2137, a bill that would make cocktails to-go from restaurants and bars permanent in the state. The measure now heads to Governor Laura Kelly for signature.
“Cocktails to-go has proved to be a vital economic lifeline for hospitality businesses across the state, and now, Kansans are one step closer to enjoying cocktails to-go on a permanent basis,” said Kristi Brown, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Senior Director of State Government Relations. “Kansas businesses have been hit particularly hard and making cocktails to-go permanent will provide certainty and stability for the state’s restaurants and bars while increasing convenience for consumers. We thank the Kansas Legislature for passing this bill and urge Governor Laura Kelly to sign this bill and make cocktails to-go permanent.”
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, West Virginia, Georgia 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.