City councilor proposes making 3 a.m. last call permanent in Boston

With World Cup tourism, the temporary easing of restrictions on public drinking and recent calls, Boston’s nightlife is booming so far this summer. Now, there’s new pressure on the City Council to keep the party going.

Counselor Brian Worrell foot Action this week would permanently allow bars and restaurants in Boston to sell alcohol until 3 a.m

Worrell’s proposal comes after Gov. Maura Healey signed a bill into law earlier this month Temporarily allowed Establishments that serve alcohol until 3 a.m. Municipalities that want to participate must sign up for the pilot program, which Boston has already done. Nearly 200 bars and restaurants across the city have been approved for the latest extended call so far. State law typically cuts off alcohol sales at 2 a.m

The bill also allows public consumption of alcohol in locally designated areas, with certain restrictions. Cambridge officials seized the opportunity, opening seven public drinking areas in places like Harvard Square. Boston followed with two of its own, one at Union and Marshall streets and another at Temple Place in Downtown Crossing. World Cup fans and other revelers have it Tightly packed These areas sometimes date.

Public drinking areas and extended last call can only last through July 31 under the law Healey signed.

In his petition for house rules, Worrell noted that extended drinking hours had already improved the perception of Boston as a fun city. He said the extended hours would cause increased alcohol sales, more economic activity and more revenue for the city.

Worrell pointed to a Boston Finance Commission report released earlier this month highlighting the “challenging” financial outlook facing the city due to rising costs and declining revenues. The report noted that the city has contacted the state on multiple occasions to push for things like a way to upgrade liquor licenses, and suggested the city should seek more flexibility in areas like these.

Worrell is expected to present his measure during Wednesday’s City Council meeting, where it will likely be referred to a committee for a possible future hearing. If the council approves the measure, it would still need to win support on Beacon Hill.

Some opposition is already emanating from law enforcement.

“Scientific evidence shows that increased alcohol consumption leads to higher rates of crime and violence. The truth is that not much good happens after midnight. But if Brian Worrell thinks keeping bars open until 3 a.m. will enhance fun, he should try going on a long drive,” the Boston Police Association said in a social media post. mail.