Update: Cooper approves ‘Brunch Bill’ allowing Sunday morning alcohol sales
WILMINGTON — For some, there is nothing more frustrating than getting to Sunday brunch, ready to unwind from a busy weekend with a Bloody Mary and Belgian waffles just to be told, “Sorry, you have to wait until noon to order alcohol.” For North Carolinians no alcohol before noon has been a fact of life, and a surprise for many out-of-towners looking to make the most of their weekend – but all that could change soon.
The so-called “Brunch Bill,”which would allow restaurants to serve alcohol on Sunday mornings before noon, has passed both the House and the Senate, it will now move to the governors desk for approval.
While the bill is moving forward at the state level – ultimately, the fate of Sunday morning mimosa’s lie with local government. Approval by local leaders is required before restaurants can start serving alcohol before noon.
Wilmington City Councilman Paul Lawler said he has not been involved in any discussions regarding the proposed bill yet.
“It makes sense for local governments to have this authority so that each community can choose what works for that particular community. Wilmington should consider what’s right for us if the bill is enacted into law,” Lawler said.
For restaurants like The Cast Iron Kitchen, the extra two hours worth of alcohol sales could significantly affect revenue, especially since the restaurant is only open for breakfast and lunch, Josh Petty, owner and chef of Cast Iron Kitchen said.
“I think it is about time they do it (allow alcohol sales before noon),” he said.
Tourism is also huge in the Wilmington area and often times, people from out of town are not aware of the law restricting the sale of alcohol before noon.
Petty hopes the law, if passed, would help bring people out to eat earlier and boost sales.
Senate Bill 155 would also mean more relaxed rules for distilleries in the state. Distilleries that want to give free tastings would be permitted to do so, and the law would allow the distillers to sell up to five bottles of alcohol per year to visitors instead of the current one bottle a year limit.
Michael Praats can be contacted via email at michael.p@localvoicemedia.com or on Twitter @Michael_praats
