Several temporary policies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic in Massachusetts are set to expire at midnight on Sunday, including the popular provision allowing restaurants to sell to-go cocktails with takeout food.
While the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed a supplemental budget that would make to-go drinks permanent, the Senate’s version of the budget does not include this provision. This discrepancy has left the future of to-go cocktails uncertain, with restaurants and liquor stores on opposing sides of the issue.
The Massachusetts Restaurant Association strongly supports making to-go cocktails permanent, citing its popularity among consumers and its legalization in other states. Governor Maura Healey has also expressed support for the policy.
However, liquor store owners are opposed, arguing that it creates unfair competition and disadvantages their businesses. Rob Mellion, executive director of the Massachusetts Package Stores Association, stated, “It makes absolute sense to anybody who owns a business that you’re creating, essentially, a monopoly for one segment of the industry at the expense of somebody else.”
With the House and Senate still negotiating the details of the supplemental budget, the fate of to-go cocktails hangs in the balance. Even if an agreement is reached, it is unlikely that the legislation will reach Governor Healey’s desk before the midnight deadline.
This leaves restaurants and consumers wondering if Sunday will mark the last call for to-go cocktails in Massachusetts.
