DES MOINES, IOWA (October 11, 2022) — The Iowa Restaurant Association today announced Iowa Senator Chris Cournoyer as the trade group’s 2022 Legislator of the Year. Sen Cournoyer, who represents Iowa’s 49th Senate District, was a strong voice for the hospitality industry during the 2022 legislative session. Specifically, she shepherded much needed liquor license-reform through the legislative process.
“Sen Cournoyer’s work secured new privileges for hospitality establishments of all sizes and in all four corners of the state,” said Jessica Dunker, president and CEO of the Iowa Restaurant Association. “Many of the changes she championed help the state’s 6,000+ restaurants and bars, but they also helped Iowa’s native breweries and distilleries.”
Sen Cournoyer was the floor manager for SF 2374, which made it possible for Class C liquor license-holders like restaurants and bars to buy and serve up to five cases of beer, high alcohol-content beer, or canned cocktails, once every 24 hours, from any retailer. Prior to this legislation, if a restaurant or bar ran out of beer or canned cocktails, they did not have the flexibility to purchase enough product to get by from a local grocery or convenience store. They instead had to wait for a delivery from a distributor. Sen Cournoyer’s legislative diligence and ability to work with, and bring, all the stakeholders to the table was key to the passage of this 69-page piece of legislation which took effect this summer.
In addition to helping create a business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs, the first-term senator’s policy passions include education, mental health, public safety, and creating economic opportunities for all Iowans.
Sen Cournoyer will be recognized by the Iowa Restaurant Association in a ceremony November 14 at the Iowa Events Center as part of the organization’s annual Awarding Excellence program.
Iowa Restaurant Association
The Iowa Restaurant Association provides advocacy, education and promotional support to Iowa’s restaurant and tavern industry. https://restaurantiowa.com
