WASHINGTON — Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin signed sixty bills on Wednesday, including one that permanently allows the sale of cocktails to-go in the Commonwealth.
To-go cocktails were temporarily allowed during the COVID-19 pandemic but were set to expire as of July 1. However, with the signing of House Bill 688, cocktails to-go can permanently be sold from bars, restaurants and distilleries.
With the legislation now signed, Virginia has become the 26th state to enact laws permanently allowing cocktails to-go.
The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) and The Virginia Restaurant, Lodging & Travel Association (VRLTA) applauded the move, saying in a statement:
“Virginia consumers, restaurants, bars and distilleries can all toast to the fact that cocktails to-go are here to stay in Virginia,” said Andy Deloney, senior vice president and head of state public policy at DISCUS. “During the pandemic, cocktails to-go were a critical source of revenue for many businesses, and now, the increased convenience and stability they offer is permanent. We applaud the Legislature and Governor Youngkin for supporting Virginia businesses and consumers by making cocktails to-go permanent.”
Additionally, HB688 requires the a work group to review third-party delivery licenses and report its findings and recommendations to the Chairmen of the House Committee on General Laws and the Senate Committee on Rehabilitation and Social Services by November 15.
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