Last night, the Maine Legislature passed L.D. 205, which would extend cocktails to-go from restaurants and bars with a food purchase until September 2022. The measure now heads to Governor Janet Mills’ desk for signature.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated Maine’s hospitality businesses, and it will take years for them to fully recover,” said Jay Hibbard, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Senior Vice President of State Government Relations. “Cocktails to-go has already proven to be a vital part of their survival during COVID-19 and will only provide increased stability in the year to come. Local restaurants, bars and distilleries are desperate for a sustained source of revenue, and extending cocktails to-go provides a critical lifeline as they get back on their feet. We thank the Maine Legislature for passing this measure and urge the governor to sign this bill as soon as possible.”

Background:

More than 30 states plus the District of Columbia began allowing restaurants and/or bars to sell cocktails to-go as a temporary economic relief measure when COVID-19 hit the United States. Iowa, Ohio and D.C. have since made cocktails to-go permanent, and now, more than 30 states are considering 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.