National Beer Day just got a little better for residents of the nation’s capital, where new alcohol laws went into effect on Friday.
Washington’s brewpubs, which had only been allowed to sell growlers to take home, now are able to sell their beer in cans, kegs, bottles and other sealed containers. Even distilleries and wineries will be allowed to sell cans and kegs instead of just barrels and bottles.
And residents can expect to find growlers of wine, cider and mead at their grocery store, thanks to the Omnibus Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Amendment of 2016. Previously, only beer growlers had been allowed to be sold in supermarkets.
“This new law allows District businesses to expand areas of their operations consistent with other jurisdictions,” Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration Director Fred Moosally said. “It also clarifies existing law for licensees and the public.”
Distilleries, also, can start getting more creative with their mixed drinks since they are now able to mix cocktails using whatever spirits they want, including those from other companies.
And bouncers at bars and night clubs will accept a military ID in place of a driver’s license.
Finally, bed and breakfasts with fewer than 30 guest rooms can serve alcohol to guests, but expect a room fee for the service — that’s a requirement.
