Oregon legislators approved a pair of temporary lifelines for restaurants Monday, passing a bill that would cap third-party delivery fees and allow to-go liquor sales.
The bill, introduced during a special session focused on pandemic relief, would limit the amount delivery providers can charge restaurants at 15% of the order total. For restaurants that use a provider for takeout only, fees are capped at 5%. The measure does not apply to places that already have a limit, such as Portland, where fees are capped at 10%.
Oregon would be the second state to cap delivery charges, joining Washington. More than a dozen other cities and counties have done so.
The bill would also allow restaurants to sell mixed drinks or single servings of wine in sealed containers for takeout. Every two drinks must be accompanied by a “substantial food item.” Thirty-two states and Washington, D.C. have similarly eased liquor regulations on a permanent or emergency basis, according to the National Restaurant Association.
“These two acts will certainly help Oregon’s devastated restaurant industry, but we know more needs to be done,” said Greg Astley, director of government affairs for the Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association, in a statement. “Oregon’s restaurants need additional financial relief from Congress and the State to make sure we survive.”
The bill passed by a 21-3 margin in the Senate and 50-4 in the House. It now awaits Gov. Kate Brown’s signature. Both measures would last until 60 days after the end of Oregon’s state of emergency.
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