Signed by Governor Asa Hutchinson

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to concur with House amendments and pass a bill that authorizes to-go alcohol sales for restaurants.

Highlights:

• Authorizes a restaurant holding a valid alcoholic beverage permit to sell alcoholic beverages in a sealed container during legal operating hours directly to a consumer 21 years of age or older along with the purchase of a meal in the following ways (Sec. 2.a):

• At the point of sale to be consumed off-premises;

• At the drive-through to be consumed off-premises;

• At the curbside to be consumed off-premises; or

• Delivered to a consumer at a location off-premises.

• Specifies this law does not apply to a (Sec. 2.d):

• Private club; or

• Restaurant located in a dry area.

• Authorizes a permit holder to sell alcoholic beverages with the purchase of a meal under this law with limits to the following quantities per sale (Sec. 2.e):

• 72 oz. of beer, malt beverages, or hard cider, or the equivalent of 1 standard six-pack;

• 750 ml of wine, or the equivalent of 1 bottle; and

• 32 oz. of spirituous liquors or the equivalent of 4 8oz. drinks.

• Classifies “restaurant” as a public or private place that (Sec. 2.h-2):

• Is kept, used, maintained, advertised, and held out to the public or to a private or restricted membership as a place where complete meals are actually and regularly served;

• Provides adequate and sanitary kitchen and dining equipment;

• Has a seating capacity of at least 25 persons;

• Employs a sufficient number and variety of employees to prepare, cook, and serve suitable food for its guests or members;

• Serves at least 1 meal per day; and

• Is open a minimum of 5 days per week, except for holidays, vacations, and periods of redecorating.

• Requires the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division to file the final rules with the Secretary of State for adoption (Sec. 3.a):

• On or before January 1, 2022; or

• If approval has not occurred by January 1, 2022, as soon as practicable after approval.

Full Bill Text