New Yorkers allowed to buy takeaway cocktails, but there are a few conditions

The arrival of takeaway cocktails has been one of the small positives of the pandemic. And most New Yorkers and businesses were disappointed when they were unexpectedly banned last summer. Secret NYC.

Fortunately, there is good news for them! New York Gov. Hokul announced a few months ago that legislation would be back to help local businesses. And now it's official. The decision was made within the framework of the new State Budget for Fiscal Year 2023 on Thursday 7 April.

And what is the most pleasant thing? The regulation came into effect as soon as the governor signed the budget. Which means takeout alcoholic drinks should be back on the menu ASAP!

This is all part of Hokul's Billion Dollar Rescue Plan aid package to support bars, restaurants and other small businesses hit hard during the pandemic. She first spoke about this in her address to the state government on January 5th.

The new legislation effectively amends the state Liquor Control Act to “permit restaurants and bars licensed to sell liquor or wine for indoor consumption to also sell those products for outdoor consumption.” Unlike the original proposal, the law will not be permanent. Most likely, it will be valid for three years (until 2025).

Here are some specific rules you should know:

• The sale of bottles will be banned (as liquor stores have expressed concern). The SLA states that “a bottle is defined as wine and/or liquor that a retailer purchases from a wholesaler in a bottle, box, can, or other similar container.”
• In order to enjoy your alcoholic drink on the go, a “substantial” food order is required. Examples shared by the State Liquor Administration are “sandwiches, soups, or other foods, whether fresh, processed, pre-cooked, or frozen… a bag of chips, a mix of nuts, or candy is not enough.”
• Drinks must be in sealed packages (all ready-made packages must comply with municipal open container laws).
• Businesses (or the organization making the delivery on behalf of the business) will be responsible for ensuring that the consumer has a valid ID and for verifying the consumer's identity and age at the time of delivery.

On the subject: Top 15 Best Restaurants and Bars in NYC to Enjoy Live Music

“New York's nightlife and hospitality industry is second to none. By allowing takeaway drinks, we will support the recovery of the industry from the pandemic,” Governor Hokul said.

Other related elements of the new state budget for 2023 include the “Commission to Study the Reform of the Liquor Control Law.” She will review and evaluate current New York State alcohol laws to determine whether they should be further “modernized or simplified” to better serve small businesses.