Iowa lawmakers pass improvements for to-go cocktail rules
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Updated: 9:38 PM CDT May 8, 2021
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Updated: 9:38 PM CDT May 8, 2021
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TRACKING THE COVID-19 VACCINE
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Updated: 9:38 PM CDT May 8, 2021
To-go alcohol at Iowa restaurants could soon be eligible for delivery pending Gov. Kim Reynolds’ approval.The Iowa House voted 85-1 to allow businesses with the proper permits and licenses to continue selling alcoholic drinks for carry-out.To-go cocktails began in 2020 after the COVID-19 pandemic began to help restaurants continue making a profit during shutdowns. Rep. Shannon Lundgren, R-Dubuque, said she hopes the measure will continue to help the recovering bar and restaurant industry. “It is a great way for our bars and restaurants to help recover from the pandemic,” Lundgren said. “Many were closed over the last year.”The bill calls for improved sealing of containers. Jessica Dunker, with the Iowa Restaurant Association, said the bill also allows a gallon of a cocktail to be made ahead of time and packaged individually to fill orders instead of making individual to-go drinks."It makes it a little bit easier for restaurants and bars to use alternative packaging,” Dunker said. “It also allows restaurants and bars to do some batching."Dunker said the bill can expand business when coupled with House File 766, which would give bars and restaurants the option to form contractual agreements with delivery services, including Uber Eats and Grub Hub. "If they're going to deliver alcohol on your behalf, there are some assurances to make sure that minors don't receive it,” she said.The bill would take effect July 1 if approved by Reynolds.