At a time when restaurants and bars were shut down for in-person consumption, the state of Iowa eased some regulations, including the sale of alcohol to-go as a way to help keep the economy going. More than 30 states and Washington D.C. eased restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the closing days of the legislative session the legislature decided to make this change permanent and became the first state in the nation to allow carry-out and delivery of cocktails and mixed drinks. According to the Distilled Spirits Council, many other states are considering making these changes permanent. The changes will allow bars and restaurants to be creative in their menu offerings and for Iowans to continue to enjoy their favorite beverage at home while the virus continues to spread out of control in Iowa.
