Friedman Votes on Bill to Support Restaurants During COVID-19

Bill allows amending of alcohol licenses for outdoor services

(BOSTON – 07/27/2020) Senator Cindy F. Friedman (D-Arlington) recently joined her Senate colleagues in passing legislation to further allow communities and restaurants flexibility during the public health crisis. 

The bill, An Act to Address Challenges Faced by Restaurants and other Establishments due to COVID-19,ensures local municipalities maintain flexibility in authorizing restaurants to provide food and alcohol service in expanded outdoor spaces during the COVID-19 emergency through November 1, 2020. This flexibility is currently provided through an executive order issued by the Governor and passage of this law will ensure this practice continues. 

“We must do everything we can to support the restaurant industry during these challenging economic times,” said Friedman. “This legislation gives local restaurants and businesses the flexibility they need to safely serve more customers and generate more revenue so they can stay afloat as they welcome back customers and recover from the difficulties they have faced as a result of the pandemic.”

The legislation is the latest in a series of bills supported by the Senate during the Coronavirus Pandemic which aim to support businesses while social distancing remains encouraged. The bill now moves to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for consideration.