Healey backs bill to keep bars open until 3 a.m. for World Cup

Governor Maura Healey is backing a bill to allow Massachusetts bars and restaurants to remain open until 3 a.m. this summer, as the state hosts several major tourism events.

Read more Trump said he got a ‘perfect score’ on another cognitive test. These late-night hosts have a few follow up questions.

Healey, a Democrat who played pro basketball overseas, voiced her support for the bill, which would also allow public alcohol consumption in designated areas (think fintech-fueled beer gardens downtown), in written testimony submitted Monday to the Legislature’s Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies.

The committee is currently considering the bill, records show. A final version will have to be approved by the House and Senate before it lands on Healey’s desk for her imprimatur.

“Massachusetts is planning for a once-in-a-generation summer,” Healey said in the testimony. “In 2026, we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, welcome tall ships from around the world to Boston Harbor for Sail Boston, and host seven FIFA World Cup matches in Foxborough, along with watch parties across the Commonwealth.”

All the events will bring a crush of visitors to the region, giving merchants a “unique opportunity” to cash in, she said.

Read more Iran stops talking to mediators, Iranian reports say, but Trump says talks continue

The bill, Healey continued, “gives municipalities a tool to seize that opportunity. It allows cities and towns to establish social consumption districts and modestly extend bar and restaurant service hours.”

Such extensions will give businesses greater flexibility, Healey said.

“That flexibility can help communities capture more visitor spending, support jobs, keep downtowns active, and strengthen Massachusetts’ image as a dynamic destination ready to host the world and a place our residents, including our young professionals, are proud to call home,” Healey said.

The governor urged swift advancement of the bill, saying it will “help Massachusetts meet the full economic and cultural opportunities for the summer ahead.”

If the bill passes, bars could stay open until 3 a.m. through August. But they’d need community approval, so check your local listings.

Read more Rubio is optimistic on eventual Iran nuclear talks despite congressional skepticism