New York Gov’s Office Deems Liquor Stores ‘Essential’ Amid Coronavirus
While New York Governor Andrew Cuomo recently announced the newest restrictions on public life among the novel coronavirus — which includes closures of all-non-essential businesses — liquor stores are being deemed “essential.”
Following Gov. Cuomo’s informal shelter-in-place policy, confusion arose as to whether liquor stores would be allowed to stay in business after Sunday (Mar 22). To cease all worries, we’re here to tell you that they will in fact remain in business across New York.
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Additionally, the New York State Liquor Store Association confirmed, “Liquor stores have been deemed an essential business and may remain open. You do not need to reduce your workforce. This applies to all SLA licensed entities as per the SLA.”
It appears, since liquor stores simultaneously fall into the categories of manufacturing: (“food processing, including all foods and beverages),” and retail: “(grocery stores including all food and beverage stores” / “convenience stores),” their businesses can remain open.
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For more information on the essential business mandate for liquor stores, click here.
Furthermore, restaurants and bars are still allowed to sell alcohol and food, but to-go only.