Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee recently signed HB 5105, a bill allowing cocktails to-go from restaurants and bars until March 1, 2022 – increasing consumer convenience and supporting hospitality businesses devastated by COVID-19.
“By being able to sell cocktails to-go during the pandemic, Rhode Island’s restaurants and bars were provided a critical economic lifeline that prevented many from permanent closure,” said David Wojnar, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Senior Vice President and Head of State Public Policy. “Cocktails to-go have proven to be a vital part of these businesses’ survival during COVID-19 and will only provide increased stability as they work to get back on their feet. We thank the legislature and Governor McKee for extending cocktails to-go in support of Rhode Island’s hospitality businesses.”
The bill was signed on Friday, July 2.
Background:
More than 35 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, Oklahoma, Texas, Florida, Kansas, Arizona, Nebraska, Oregon and the District of Columbia have all made COVID-era cocktails to-go measures 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.