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Gov. Greg Abbott has signed legislation to permanently allow Texas restaurants to sell alcohol in take-out orders.
The bill indefinitely extends a waiver that Abbott issued in March 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic to help the struggling restaurant industry. Alcohol to-go offered a revenue stream to restaurants and bars that were forced to close their dining areas.
“[I’m] proud to sign #HB1024 into law, making Alcohol-To-Go legal in the state of Texas – a big win for restaurants across the state,” Abbott said in a May 12 Twitter post. “Congrats to @KHancock4TX @CharlieGeren @Justinaholland @Senfronia4Texas @CarolForTexas and @TanParkerTX.”
The bill was filed by Republican Rep. Charlie Green, owner of the Fort Worth restaurant Railhead Smokehouse. Democratic Rep. Senfronia Thompson and Democratic Sen. Carol Alvarado were the bill sponsors representing the Houston-area.
“Thank you to my partners in the legislature for getting this to my desk,” Abbot said in another Twitter post.
The bill aims to continue to repair the state’s restaurant industry. Texas Restaurant Association has reported 700,000 restaurant employees lost their jobs at the start of the pandemic.
“Today is a great day for Texas restaurants, as well as for customers,” Abbott said in the video accompanying the Twitter posts.
House Bill 1024 enables Texans to purchase beer, wine and mixed drinks in pickup and delivery orders. All alcoholic drinks must be placed in a sealed and tamper-proof container with a label featuring the businesses’ name. Alcohol to-go must also be purchased with food.