Measure supports struggling hospitality businesses

The Iowa legislature passed legislation today making the sale of cocktails to-go from restaurants, bars and distilleries permanent – a move that will help support struggling hospitality businesses throughout the state.

“The path to recovery following COVID-19 will last long beyond the end of the pandemic for Iowa’s hospitality businesses,” said Dale Szyndrowski, DISCUS Vice President of State Government Relations. “Making consumer-friendly measures like cocktails to-go permanent provides local bars, restaurants and distilleries with a sustained source of much-needed revenue as they get back on their feet. We applaud the Iowa legislature for taking action to support hospitality businesses and their employees and hope the governor will act swiftly in signing this measure.”

Background:

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. Other states, including Texas, Florida, Ohio, Oklahoma and the District of Columbia, are also 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.