Suffolk Reporter

Brown: Making To-Go Drinks Permanent in Our State Would be a Terrible Mistake

Feb 21, 2024

Brown, an outspoken critic of the Governor's proposal to make alcoholic to-go drink sales permanent in the state, has raised concerns about the potential negative implications of such a decision. While acknowledging the support to small businesses during the pandemic, Brown emphasized the risks to public safety that this change could bring.

Brown stated, "The Governor’s proposal to make alcoholic to-go drink sales from restaurants and bars in our state permanent will have disastrous consequences in the near future. While many small businesses are pleased with the proposal as to-go sales have helped support their businesses in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, this cannot excuse the risks to public safety this permanent change will pose to New Yorkers. This proposal is a move in the wrong direction —providing support through much-needed tax breaks in the state budget seems much more appropriate.”

The debate over the permanence of to-go drink sales continues to spark discussions among policymakers and stakeholders in the state. As different perspectives are considered, the focus remains on balancing economic recovery for businesses with ensuring public safety and well-being.