Cocktails on buses? Cheers, says Texas Senate

Vonlane's luxury bus Tuesday, April 14, 2015, in Houston, Texas. Vonlane's amenities include an board attendant and galley, free Wi-Fi, complimentary noise canceling headsets, satellite radio and television. Vonlane will start service Houston to Dallas Monday April 20, 2015. less Vonlane's luxury bus Tuesday, April 14, 2015, in Houston, Texas. Vonlane's amenities include an board attendant and galley, free Wi-Fi, complimentary noise canceling headsets, satellite radio and television. ... more Photo: Billy Smith II, Chronicle Photo: Billy Smith II, Chronicle Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Cocktails on buses? Cheers, says Texas Senate 1 / 1 Back to Gallery

AUSTIN — Airplanes and trains allow it. And buses can soon, too, if Gov. Greg Abbott agrees.

The Texas Senate on Wednesday gave final approval to legislation that for the first time will legalize alcoholic beverage service on passenger buses in Texas.

That means when you hop an air-conditioned ride between Texas' major cities, an increasingly popular commute, you may soon be able to enjoy a delicious beverage in your seat.

Until now, only airlines and trains have been able to get a Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission license to serve alcoholic drinks on board.

The bill by Rep. John Kuempel, R-Seguin, earlier passed the House. It was sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury.

Approved 28-2 in the Senate, with Republican Sens. Charles Perry of Lubbock and Bob Hall of Edgewood voting against, the measure now goes to Abbott for a decision on whether it should become law.

"This is a pro-business bill," Birdwell said in explaining the bill before the Senate approved it.

Alex Danza, founder and president of Vonlane, a premium bus service serving Texas' top metro areas, applauded the vote.

"This effort was about leveling the playing field with airline carriers and railroads and updating an antiquated Texas law to reflect the desires of business travelers," he said. "Mostly, we're delighted that we will be able to serve our passengers a cold beer or glass of wine after a long day. We're appreciative of all involved in making this new law to better serve Texas travelers."