RI Senate OKs Bill To Continue Takeout Cocktails Post-Pendemic

PROVIDENCE, RI — The Rhode Island Senate has approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Hanna M. Gallo allowing Class B liquor license holders and brewpubs to sell beer, wine and mixed drinks with take-out food through March 1, 2022.

“The restaurant and hospitality industry has been battered by the economic effects of the pandemic, and is now facing another struggle in the shape of an employee shortage," said Gallo (D-Dist 27, Cranston, West Warwick).

In a news release, Gallo said a simple extension of take-out drinks will help restaurants stay afloat, bring in a little more revenue, and keep paying their employees.

The legislation (2021-S 0555Aaa) will allow Class B license holders and brewpubs to sell up to two bottles of wine, 72 ounces of a mixed-wine drink, 144 ounces of beer, and mixed drinks with no more than nine ounces of distilled spirits. All drinks must be sold in factory-sealed containers or containers sealed in such a way as to prevent re-opening without obvious evidence that the seal was removed or broken.

The bill applies only to take-out orders, not delivery. It would take effect upon passage and would sunset on March 1, 2022.

The legislation heads to the House of Representatives, which on March 4 passed similar legislation (2021-H 5105A) sponsored by Rep. Jacquelyn M. Baginski (D-Dist. 17, Cranston).