By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com (Photo by taphandles.com)

ALABAMA — In an effort to curb the spread of coronavirus, the Alabama Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Board has implemented measures to stop alcohol sales after 11 p.m. in the State of Alabama. The rule went into effect on Saturday, August 1. 

The Emergency Rule was approved by the Board last week, and states that “all ABC licenses shall cease the service or sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premise consumption from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following day.” In addition, drinking alcohol at a bar or restaurant must end by 11:30 p.m.

Violation of the rule could lead to an establishment having their alcohol license suspended. 

“The primary mission of the Alabama ABC Board is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of our citizens and we take this mission very seriously,” said ABC Board Chairman Col. Alan Spencer. “We are very sensitive to the economic impact this rule will have. This is a gut-wrenching decision we are making...but it is also gut-wrenching to see the number of Alabamians who are suffering from this disease.” 

The rule is expected to remain in effect for at least 120 days.