RI House Speaker Calls For Extension Of To-Go Alcohol Until 2021

CRANSTON, RI — With the coronavirus pandemic still ravaging Rhode Island's restaurant industry and the end of outdoor dining season fast approaching, a state house leader is calling for an extension of the ability for businesses to offer alcohol with to-go orders.

House Speaker Nicholas Mattiello introduced a bill that would allow restaurants to offer takeout beer, wine and mixed drinks until the end of next year.

"Alcohol to go has proven to be popular with consumers and very helpful to restaurants during the pandemic," Mattiello said. "I look forward to extending this practice through the end of 2021, as it was set to expire at the end of this year. I believe this bill will continue to assist restaurants during these very difficult times."

Takeout alcohol has been allowed in Rhode Island since late March, when Gov. Gina Raimondo issued an executive order. At the time, Mattiello worked with the governor and members of the hospitality industry to create the policy.

The House Finance Committee is set to meet at 4 p.m. Wednesday to discuss the legislation.

If signed into law, it would allow restaurants with a Class B license to sell up to two bottles of wine, 144 oz of beer and mixed drinks in factory-sealed containers, alongside takeout orders. Up to 144 oz of draft beers or 72 oz of mixed drinks would also be allowed in a growler, bottle or other sealed container.

"I thank the co-sponsors for working with me on this issue and for their commitment to helping the restaurant and hospitality industry," Mattiello said.