To-Go Cocktails Could Become A Permanent Thing In PA

HARRISBURG, PA —A measure being introduced in the state House would let bars and restaurants to sell mixed drinks to-go permanently. Legislation last year permitted temporary to-go sales during the pandemic.

"My legislation is needed to make this change permanent, state Rep. Kurt Masser, who represents portions of portions of Columbia, Montour and Northumberland counties, said in a memo to House colleagues.

"Making this initiative permanent will provide our bars and restaurants with a needed option to continue to make up funds that they lost during this crisis," Masser said.

On Tuesday, the House Liquor Control Committee voted 23-0 to approve the legislation.

It's unclear when, or if, the full House will vote on the bill.

Gov. Tom Wolf signed the cocktails to-go law last May, during the height of the coronavirus shutdowns.

The law applies to establishments with liquor licenses that sell to-go meals. Drinks must be sold in containers with a secure lid in quantities from 4 to 64 ounces.

Containers must be designed to prevent drinking without removing the lid or cap. Lids with sipping or straw holes must have those holes covered. There is no limit to the number of drinks-to-go a person may purchase and purchase of a meal is not required.

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board stressed at the time of the law's initial passage that it's illegal to have an open container of alcohol in a vehicle and open containers may only be transported in a vehicle's trunk or another area not occupied by passengers.