A New Law Allows Massachusetts Bars To Stay Open Until 3 A.M. This Summer. Will Nantucket Adopt It?

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey on Monday signed new legislation that authorizes towns to allow bars to stay open until 3:00 a.m. through the end of July, an hour later than state liquor license laws usually permit.

The opt-in legislation, which was co-sponsored by Julian Cyr, Nantucket’s representative in the state Senate, is intended to coincide with the World Cup and the 250th anniversary of the United States.

“This bill will provide more opportunities for people to celebrate with their community for the World Cup and the other exciting events we have happening this summer for MA250,” said Governor Healey in a statement. “It will also support our local businesses and regional economies as they see a surge in visitors.”

Select Board chair Dawn Hill told the Current that the new law will likely be discussed at the Select Board’s licensing and petitions meeting next Monday, but emphasized that the town retains local control and is not obligated to allow any bars to remain open later than they is currently permitted.

Licensing administrator Amy Baxter said that, so far, none of the island's licensed establishments have reached out to the town to request to stay open later. The law allows bars to continue to serve alcohol "for one additional hour beyond the time set forth in the establishment’s license." Since Nantucket's Select Board sets the island's last call at 1 a.m., it appears the new legislation would allow Nantucket establishments to stay open until 2 a.m., not 3 a.m., an interpretation that Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission executive director Ralph Sacramone confirmed to the Current.

“It’s up to the town,” Chicken Box co-owner Packy Norton told the Current. “Once they give a ruling, we will make up our minds.”

Other local bar owners were similarly equivocal.

“I don’t know. The extra hour we can stay open on New Year's Eve doesn’t really gain us anything,” Rose and Crown managing partner Debba Pitcock said. “I don’t think anyone even does it anymore. I think it would depend on when the games are and who is playing them, on whether it would be worthwhile.”

The law also allows public consumption of alcohol in locally designated areas through July 31.

“I’ve said for years that Massachusetts has a ‘fun’ problem, so I am delighted to see Governor Healey sign legislation to bring some much-needed conviviality to our summer,” Cyr said in a statement. “With scores of visitors set to descend on the Commonwealth, this simple change sends the clear message that we’re ready to make the most out of an unforgettable summer. Let’s show the world that we truly do know how to have a good time in Massachusetts.”

The World Cup runs from June 11th to July 19th, and seven matches will be held in Massachusetts.