Gov. Greg Abbott waives regulations to allow restaurants to deliver alcohol with food orders

Restaurant patrons ordering food for delivery will also be able to order beer, wine and mixed drinks.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issued a waiver to allow the action to help ease the financial hardship caused by coronavirus, according to a release from the state. The action takes place immediately.

“The state of Texas is committed to supporting retailers, restaurants and their employees,” Abbott said. “These waivers will allow restaurants to provide enhanced delivery options to consumers during this temporary period of social distancing.”

Restaurants with a mixed beverage permit may now sell alcohol for delivery as long as food is ordered for delivery, according to the release.

The governor also directed the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission to allow manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers of alcoholic beverages to repurchase or sell back unopened product.

“The buy-back waiver allows alcohol distributors and manufacturers to repurchase excess inventory from restaurants, bars and clubs affected by event cancellations due to coronavirus.