New Jersey Becomes 33rd State to Make Cocktails To-Go Permanent

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill today signed legislation permanently authorizing cocktails to-go, making New Jersey the 33rd state to enact a permanent cocktails-to-go law in support of local restaurants, bars and adult consumers.

Cocktails to-go were initially authorized during the COVID-19 pandemic to help hospitality businesses weather unprecedented challenges. Since then, the measure has remained popular with consumers while providing an important source of revenue for restaurants and bars.

“New Jersey consumers have enjoyed cocktails to-go for years, and this legislation ensures they’ll continue to have that option,” said Corey Staniscia, vice president of state government relations at the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. “What began as a temporary measure has become a reliable part of how many restaurants and bars serve their customers. We thank Governor Sherrill and the Legislature for making cocktails to-go permanent. This bill will provide support for the New Jersey hospitality industry, while preserving a popular option for adult consumers”

Since the beginning of the pandemic, 33 states and the District of Columbia have enacted laws permanently allowing cocktails to-go, reflecting strong consumer demand and continued support from hospitality businesses.

The distilled spirits industry is committed to responsibility and encourages moderation for adults who choose to drink alcohol. Cocktails to-go are intended for home consumption. Laws governing alcohol consumption must always be observed.

BACKGROUND

States that signed legislation to make cocktails to-go permanent into law:

Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia have all made COVID-era cocktails to-go measures permanent.

States that signed legislation to allow cocktails to-go on a temporary basis into law:

California (expires December 31, 2026) and New York (expires April 9, 2030) still allow cocktails to-go on a temporary basis.