The Massachusetts Senate passed legislation Friday to allow mixed alcoholic drinks to be sold with takeout and delivery orders in Massachusetts during the COVID-19 emergency.
State Sen. Diana DiZoglio filed the bill that would make Massachusetts the latest state to permit the sale of mixed drinks with takeout and delivery. More than 34 other states, including Maine and Rhode Island, have already adopted such measures.
DiZoglio said, “While the legislature does not have a say in the reopening plan during this continued state of emergency, we still have an obligation to use every legislative tool we have to help those that are struggling due to the pandemic.”
She asked that Gov. Charlie Baker sign the legislation, which was passed earlier by the House, as soon as possible.
Earlier this year, beer and wine sales were permitted to be sold with takeout and delivery orders but mixed drinks were not included.
“Since the start of the COVID-19 emergency, I have heard from our local restaurant owners about the revenue that to-go mixed drinks could generate to help them stay afloat and survive the impacts of the shutdown,” said DiZoglio. “While many mom and pop establishments have been able to slowly reopen in recent weeks, they still face significant challenges in their efforts to retain employees and pay their bills.”