(The Center Square) – New York bars and restaurants will be able to stay open later under a bill signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul aimed at providing more offerings for World Cup attendees.
The measure, which sailed through the state Legislature over the past week, will allow businesses in New York counties with earlier closing times to operate until 4 a.m. from June 11 to July 20. The measure temporarily overrides more restrictive hours set by the State Liquor Authority aimed at preventing bar crawling that activists say contributes to drunk driving.
Hochul said extending last call will help bars, restaurants and other on-premises establishments meet increased demand during one of the world’s largest sporting events.
“The World Cup is coming to New York and I want every New Yorker and local business to be part of the action and celebration, no ticket required,” Hochul, a Democrat, said in a statement. “From the first kick to the last whistle, bars and restaurants across our state can stay open throughout the tournament, bringing New Yorkers together to cheer on every goal and supporting small businesses across the state.”
The state is also offering a World Cup One-Day Permit through the New York State Liquor Authority, which will allow bars, restaurants and event organizers to host off-site activations during the entire tournament rather than the current four-day limit. Applicants can request up to 12 one-day permits per application, according to the Hochul administration.
“We want to make sure all New Yorkers can watch the World Cup in community spaces, and all businesses that want to show matches can be open to the public while they’re broadcast live,” Hochul said.
The World Cup is expected to draw large crowds and boost local economies across New York state, with watch parties, community events and tourism driving spending. New York and New Jersey will host eight matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ, including the final.
“With 1.2 million visitors expected to arrive in the region for the World Cup this summer, this temporary expansion of operating hours will make this once-in-a-lifetime event memorable for New York fans, as well as a boon for small businesses,” state Sen. James Skoufis, a co-sponsor of the legislation, said in a statement.
