SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed legislation to allow takeout sales of beer and wine from bars and restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill passed on a vote of 129-1.
Rep. John Persell (DFL – Bemidji) voted in favor of the bill and issued the following statement:
“We are finding ways to get our economy up and running without putting Minnesotans at risk,” said Rep. Persell. “Minnesotans have asked for this change since these businesses closed to dine-in customers, and I am pleased we were able to deliver.”
The legislation allows bars and restaurants with liquor licenses to sell up to 72 ounces – the equivalent of one six-pack – of beer, cider or hard seltzer and up to 750 milliliters of wine – the equivalent of one bottle – with food orders. The alcoholic beverages must be sold in their original, unopened containers.
The legislation can be found here. Video of today’s floor debate will be available here. The legislation passed in the Minnesota Senate yesterday, and it is expected to be signed into law by Governor Walz.