Texas Senate Considers Bill for Spirits-Based RTDs

News Summary

The Texas Senate is deliberating on Senate Bill 2255, which could permit the sale of spirits-based ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails in grocery and convenience stores. If passed, the bill would allow these beverages, with up to 17% ABV, to hit shelves alongside beer and wine by September 1, 2025. The Distilled Spirits Council supports the initiative, which could generate significant tax revenue and support small businesses in Texas. A grassroots campaign, Texans 4 Market Freedom, is backing the bill, indicating a positive shift in consumer sentiment towards wider availability of these cocktails.

Exciting News for Texas Booze Lovers!

Residents of Texas, get ready for a potentially great change in your shopping experience! The Texas Senate is currently deliberating on a bill that could allow the sale of spirits-based ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails in grocery and convenience stores. This means sipping your favorite pre-mixed cocktails while grabbing your snacks could soon be a reality.

The Scoop on Senate Bill 2255

The bill in question, Senate Bill 2255 (SB 2255), recently received approval from the Texas Senate State Affairs Committee, and now it’s gearing up for a full Senate vote. If everything goes smoothly and the bill passes, spirits-based RTDs with an alcohol content of up to 17% ABV will share shelf space with beer and wine in stores that are already allowed to sell those beverages. This is a game-changer for cocktail enthusiasts who love convenience!

When Can You Expect This?

Mark your calendars! If the bill is given the green light, it is set to kick in on September 1, 2025. That’s just in time for the football season, making tailgating a whole lot more fun! Picture this: grabbing a delicious pre-mixed cocktail at your local grocery store while getting everything ready for the big game. Sounds delightful, right?

Support and Significance

The Distilled Spirits Council of the US (Discus) is all in favor of this bill! They claim it’s a win-win for both consumers and businesses. With the growing popularity of spirits-based RTDs, letting them into grocery and convenience stores could provide a significant boost for small businesses across Texas. Imagine local brands getting a chance to shine on the shelves next to the big guys!

Interestingly, Texas is currently one of about 20 states where you can’t buy spirits-based RTDs at gas stations or grocery stores. Right now, only around 3,200 stores have the permission to sell these beverages, while over 30,000 retailers can sell malt- and wine-based RTDs. This disparity highlights a prime opportunity for growth in the market!

Grassroots Movement

There’s already excitement brewing among Texans, with a grassroots campaign named Texans 4 Market Freedom emerging in support of this bill. This campaign has successfully sent nearly 2,000 letters from consumers to lawmakers, advocating for the sale of spirits-based RTDs. It looks like many adults are ready for a change!

Positive Trends from Other States

We’re not alone in this push! Neighboring states like Alabama are making strides too. Recent legislative changes there now allow RTDs made with low-alcohol spirits to be sold in similar retail environments. A survey in Alabama showed that 63% of adults support selling spirits-based RTDs where beer and wine are sold. And the support rises to an impressive 74% when they learn more about these beverages!

The Financial Upside

According to projections, expanding access to spirits-based RTDs could generate an estimated $160 million in new tax revenue for the state over the next 3 to 5 years. That’s a hefty sum that could be funneled into various state programs to benefit all Texans! Who wouldn’t want to see their tax dollars making their communities better?

Next Steps

Legislative efforts are gathering steam, led by key figures in Texas aiming to lift the restrictions on spirits-based beverage sales. The proposed bill is pushing through the Texas Legislature, and its fate remains to be seen. Keep your eyes peeled; this may just be the start of a new chapter in how Texans enjoy their beverages.

Final Thoughts

To all Texas residents who enjoy a good drink, this bill could open up fresh and exciting avenues for purchasing your favorite cocktails. It’s a waiting game to see what the full Senate decides, but at least we have something to look forward to! Fingers crossed for the football season of 2025!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• The Spirits Business
• Chron
• KHOU
• Brewbound
• Google Search: Texas spirits-based RTDs