POLL: Should 'Happy Hour' be Reinstated in MA?
The state's Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission is taking comments from people and businesses about whether "Happy Hour" should be reintroduced. Some businesses feel proposed gaming establishments will otherwise have an unfair advantage.
"Happy Hour" drink specials ended in Massachusetts 28 years ago, in an effort to reduce drunken driving and alcohol-related driving deaths.
The ban put an end to all promotions involving free or low priced drinks.
Now, a state agency that oversees alcohol sales and regulations is considering whether to allow bars and restaurants to feature drink specials, as a way to compete with all-night casinos.
The issue first came up last year, when the legislature considered the gaming bill. But it did not make it into the final package approved early this year by Gov. Deval Patrick.
Before the ban, bars could offer Happy Hour specials, such as two-for-one drink specials, or $1 beers. That option became unlawful in Massachusetts in 1984.
The ban took effect under former Gov. Michael Dukakis. Contacted by the New York Times last year, he said he was appalled the prohibition could be removed. “Unquestionably, people will lose their lives if this happens,” he told the newspaper.
The fourth of five public hearings on the issue will be held Tuesday in Boston, by the state's Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission. Any commission recommendation must be filed by June 30, 2013 with the state House and Senate. [Editor's Note: see attached PDF]
What do you think? Is it time to give bars and restaurants an option to use these promotions? Or should Happy Hour remain a thing of the past? Vote in the poll and share your opinion in the comment section.
Ryan Seavey
11:59 am on Sunday, August 19, 2012
I thought prohibition ended in the 30's? I guess not.
Mike Marcantonio
7:21 pm on Sunday, August 19, 2012
Drinking is not a right it is a privilage. Just ask Lindsey Lohan.
The happy hour laws put the industry on an even playing field. Back in the 80's they were promoting 2 of 1's from 10:00 p.m. to midnight. People who were drinking all night didn't need the 2 for 1's from 10:00 p.m. to midnight. Alcohol related issues increased tremendously. I think it would be wise to keep them as is.
The casino operators want it because they know alcohol loosens the wallet. Not much protection for gamblers.
phyllis simons
1:44 pm on Saturday, August 25, 2012
The word "proposed" says it...it may not be for several years from now. Happy Hours have a way of turning into Un-Happy hours when alcohol bargain hunters became unruly, beligerent, and law-breaking persons. Instead leet bars offer more free food.