Legislative Update- MN Outdoor Recreation Open & Takeout Beer & Wine

Dear Neighbors,

Earlier this week, I wrote that I wanted Minnesota to follow something of a middle road approach, where we start to reopen businesses that are safe to reopen, while continuing restrictions that are necessary to flatten the curve and prevent a surge in COVID-19 cases. I continue to advocate this approach to the Governor. I was pleased to learn today that the Governor will reopen a number of outdoor recreation opportunities, including golf courses, shooting ranges, and boating businesses. This is a good step forward and I hope we continue to tailor the restrictions to fit the moment we are in.

Under this executive action, facilities that may reopen or remain open include:

• Bait shops for live bait
• Outdoor shooting ranges and game farms
• Public and private parks and trails
• Golf courses and driving ranges
• Boating and off-highway vehicle services, including:
  • Marina services
  • Dock installation and other lake services
  • Boat and off-highway vehicle sales and repair, by appointment only

Minnesota House Approves Takeout Wine & Beer

Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed legislation to allow takeout sales of beer and wine from bars and restaurants with curbside food pick-ups during the COVID-19 pandemic. This by no means is a fix-all solution, but will help bring in some additional revenues to our local Coon Rapids and Champlin restaurants and bars who are struggling.

The legislation allows bars and restaurants with liquor licenses to sell up to 72 ounces – the equivalent of one six-pack – of beer, cider or hard seltzer and up to 750 milliliters of wine – the equivalent of one bottle – with food orders. The alcoholic beverages must be sold in their original, unopened containers

Keep in Touch

Please continue to contact me with questions, input, or ideas. I value hearing from you.

Have a good weekend.

Take care,

Zack Stephenson

State Representative