To-go cocktails are here to stay

New legislation makes COVID-era drink measure permanent

PHOENIX, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Governor Doug Ducey signed HB 2773 Friday evening, allowing to-go cocktails from restaurants, bars and distilleries as a means of increasing consumer convenience and supporting local hospitality business devastated by the pandemic.

"Cocktails to-go have been a source of support for restaurants, bars and distilleries all across the U.S. and provide a much-needed lifeline for struggling hospitality businesses," says Adam Smith, Vice President of State Government Relations for the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. 

More than 35 states began allowing restaurants and/or bars to sell to-go cocktails as a COVID-19 economic relief measure. Iowa, Ohio, Kentucky, Wisconsin, Montana, Arkansas, West Virginia, Georgia, Oklahoma, Texas, Florida, Kansas, Arizona and the District of Columbia have all made COVID-era cocktails to-go measures permanent. Dozens of other states are also considering legislation to extend or implement similar measures.

Smith continues, "In fact, cocktails to-go have prevented the permanent closure of many of these businesses in the more than 30 states where it has been permitted. Under this new law, Arizona’s hospitality businesses will enjoy those same benefits as they begin the long path to economic recovery. We applaud the legislature and Gov. Ducey for supporting Arizona’s businesses and for providing increased convenience to consumers."

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.