Future may bring more drink specials, with a potential amendment to Massachusetts’ prohibition of “Happy Hour” specials.
The Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC) will be conducting public hearings this summer to gage the public’s opinion on whether the State’s current legislation banning “Happy Hour” drink specials should be amended. For the past 28 years, the State has prohibited “Happy Hour” or special drink offers at bars for the purpose of curbing motor vehicle accidents and other related crimes that arise from the excessive consumption of alcohol. The State Legislature’s recent approval of casino gambling for Massachusetts, however, has the traditional “Happy Hour” regulations back on the minds of State legislators, as it is a customary business practice for casinos located in other states to provide free drinks to their patrons at the gaming tables.
The first of the hearings was held on May 15, 2012 in Bridgewater and while the speakers at this hearing acknowledged the difference between the casino market, on one hand, and the restaurant and bar markets, on the other hand, many of the speakers in attendance voiced opposition to any changes in the current law. The ABCC will conduct further public meetings for the public’s input this summer. By June of 2013, it should have a decision about Happy Hour prepared to pass on to Legislature for review.