01-05-2025
Texas Senate advances bill allowing stores to sell ‘ready-to-drink' cocktails
AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Texas Senate on Wednesday passed SB 2225, which allows for spirit ready-to-drink cocktails (RTDs) to be sold in grocery and convenience stores where beer and wine beverages with the same alcohol content, limited to 17% alcohol by volume, are already being sold.
The bill passed by a vote of 23-8 and will now head to the House for consideration.
The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States applauded the Texas Senate for passing the bill.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Bill allowing grocery stores, gas stations to sell 'ready-to-drink' cocktails advances out of committee
'Texans are one step closer to being able to pick up their favorite spirits ready-to-drink cocktails at grocery and convenience stores right next to their beer and wine,' said Corey Staniscia, DISCUS vice president of state government relations. 'SB 2225 increases consumer convenience and choice by responsibly expanding market access for these low-alcohol spirits products. This consumer- and business-friendly measure has real momentum, and we urge the House to take up and pass this bill in support of market freedom and consumer convenience.'
A similar bill was introduced by Reps. Cody Vasut, R-Angleton, and John Bucy III, D-Austin, HB 4077. The bill is awaiting a vote in the House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee.
According to substance detection tech company Mindr, Texas has the fifth most DUI deaths and is 33rd for DUI arrests.
If passed, the bill would go into effect on Sept. 1, 2025.
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