Legislation to make an executive order by Governor Beshear regarding to-go alcoholic drinks permanent is headed to the full Kentucky Senate.
The so-called cocktails-to-go measure emerged from committee Tuesday. It allows the sale of such drinks for takeout or delivery in conjunction with a meal. Jay Hibbard with the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States testified restaurants continue to face financial challenges during this pandemic.
“We want to make sure that they have the opportunity to take every advantage of developing a revenue stream that will help save a job, pay a utility bill, help keep the doors open in that very important industry. So we thank you for the opportunity,” said Hibbard.
Senate Majority Floor Leader Damon Thayer cast a yes vote, saying restaurants see higher profit margins on drinks of all kinds compared to food.
The bill sets out that a covered or sealed container shall not be considered an open container. Kentucky law makes it illegal for a driver or passenger in a vehicle to have an open container of an alcoholic beverage on a public highway or on the right of way.
The governor’s executive order was issued in connection with the current coronavirus pandemic.
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