Nevada bill could allow alcohol delivery with meals, add surcharge to support DUI programs

A bill proposing significant changes to existing liquor laws in Nevada is slated to be heard on Monday afternoon in Carson City.

Assembly Bill 375, sponsored by assemblymembers Steve Yeagar and Bert Gurr, would allow establishments to sell mixed drinks in sealed containers for off-premises consumption, meaning food ride-share and delivery services could provide alcoholic beverages with meals. Under current state law, establishments can only sell alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption.

The bill also includes provisions for the Department of Taxation to adopt regulations governing these deliveries. A surcharge, not exceeding 50 cents per retail sale of a mixed drink, would be imposed to support the Ignition Interlock Program, which funds treatment assistance, outreach, educational programs, and enforcement activities related to driving under the influence.

Additionally, the bill revises the curriculum for the alcoholic beverage awareness program required for certain employees to include instruction on the packaging and delivery of mixed drinks.

Lastly, in a nod to Nevada's cultural heritage, the bill designates the traditional Basque drink, Picon Punch, as the official state drink of Nevada.