18 March 2020 – Restaurants allowed to include alcoholic beverages in takeaways and food delivery

Type of Intervention: Executive Order
Sectors Involved: Private Sector
Intervention Categories: Legal and policy; Regulatory change
Level of Jurisdiction: Texas
Lead People/Agency: Governor Greg Abbott

Overview: Governor Greg Abbott issued a waiver that will allow restaurants to deliver alcoholic beverages with food purchases to patrons, including beer, wine, and mixed drinks. The Governor also directed the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) to waive certain provisions to allow manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers of alcoholic beverages to repurchase or sell back unopened product.
Full details here: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-waives-certain-regulations-to-allow-delivery-of-alcohol-from-restaurants-and-to-support-hospitality-industry

Other links: 1
Type of Justification: Public Opinion (e.g. consultations, opinion polling)
Evidence/Justification: These waivers are in response to the financial hardship caused by COVID-19 that has disproportionately affected the hospitality industry. “The State of Texas is committed to supporting retailers, restaurants, and their employees,” said Governor Abbott. “These waivers will allow restaurants to provide enhanced delivery options to consumers during this temporary period of social distancing.” This decision was made in consultation with the Texas Resteraunt Association and the TABC.