In a surprising turn of events, the Massachusetts Senate announced a new amendment Thursday that would end the 40-year ban on happy hours.
State Sen. Julian Cyr proposed an amendment to a $2.8 billion economic development bill to legalize the discounted drink practice, a measure he also pushed with a bill last year that was previously approved in 2022.
"It's really crucial that we consider the significant economic boost to the nearly 19,000 restaurants and cafes we have in this Commonwealth, which feed, employ, and foster a sense of community across the state," Cyr told lawmakers Thursday.
The legislation allows establishments to sell alcohol at a discounted price if the prices remain constant during the discount period; the discount is announced at least three days in advance, and it occurs before 10 p.m., according to Boston.com.
Massachusetts banned Happy Hour back in 1984 to help combat drunken driving.
Since then, states like Kansas and Illinois have lifted similar bans and observed a decrease in drunk driving incidents, stated Cyr.
"The public health data is showing this is going in the right direction, so this is something that could be a boost to get people back to our downtowns and our main streets," he said.
The amendment would permit cities and towns in certain neighborhoods to set their own regulations for happy hour.
Cyr, who represents communities on the Cape and Islands, said several dry towns would abstain, while coastal communities may want to take advantage of their seasonal economies.
But Cyr isn't just banking on improving the economy; he also believes Massachusetts is due for some "fun."
"I hear this is a hard place for creatives and entrepreneurs to create fun," said the senator.
"There's a lot of rules and requirements, and regulations. The cost to get in is really high, and I think we've got a bit of work to do in our fun factor."
