Measure will provide support to struggling hospitality businesses
Today, the Oklahoma House passed HB 2122, a bill to allow cocktails to-go from restaurants until July 1, 2022 – increasing consumer convenience and supporting hospitality businesses devastated by COVID-19. The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated Oklahoma’s hospitality businesses, and it will take years for them to fully recover,” said Kristi Brown, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Senior Director of State Government Relations. “Cocktails to-go has already proven to be a critical part of survival for businesses in many states across the U.S., and Oklahoma businesses deserve the same opportunity. Local restaurants are desperate for a sustained source of revenue, and cocktails to-go would provide a critical lifeline. We thank the House for passing this measure and encourage the Senate to do the same in support of Oklahoma’s hospitality businesses.”
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.