Virginia Governor Signs Bill Extending Cocktails To-Go Until July 2022
RICHMOND – Today, Governor Ralph Northam signed HB 1879, a bill to allow cocktails to-go from distilleries, restaurants and bars until July 1, 2022, in an effort to support Virginia’s hospitality businesses struggling to cope with the harsh economic impacts of COVID-19.
“With the extension of cocktails to-go, Virginia hospitality businesses will continue to have a vital economic lifeline during the pandemic,” said David Wojnar, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Senior Vice President and Head of State Public Policy. “Virginia restaurants, bars and distilleries have been some of the hardest hit during COVID-19, and cocktails to-go have allowed many of them to survive. We thank Governor Northam for extending cocktails to-go and for supporting local businesses as they struggle to cope with the harsh economic impacts of the pandemic.”
Background:
Currently, more than 30 states are allowing restaurants and/or bars to sell cocktails to-go. Iowa, Ohio, Kentucky and the District of Columbia have all made COVID-era cocktails to-go measures permanent. More than 30 other states are also considering allowing, 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.
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The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States is the leading voice and advocate for distilled spirits in the U.S., advocating on legislative, regulatory and public affairs issues impacting the distilled spirits sector at the local, state, federal and international levels. DISCUS members are committed to responsibility and encourage adults who drink to do so in moderation.