Gov. Baker Signs DiZoglio’s Mixed Drinks to Go Legislation to Help Restaurants

Sen. Diana DiZoglio, center. (Photograph by Bruce DiLoreto/Massachusetts Statehouse.)

Legislation allowing restaurants to temporarily sell mixed drinks to go, as proposed by Sen. Diana DiZoglio, was signed into law Monday by Gov. Charlie Baker.

The law makes 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 adopted similar measures. Earlier this year, beer and wine sales were permitted to be sold with takeout and delivery orders but, DiZoglio said, much to the frustration of local restaurants, mixed drinks were excluded.

“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,” said DiZoglio. “According to our local, family-owned and operated restaurants, these measures could help them generate thousands of dollars a month and would greatly assist them in paying utility bills and rent,” she added.

The law, which goes into effect immediately, allows restaurants licensed to serve alcohol to sell “prepared beverage and mixed drinks”—defined as a sealed container holding up to 64 fluid ounces of liquor and mixer, combined at the restaurant—to accompany to-go food orders.

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