New York welcomes boozy brunches by scrapping Prohibition-era drinking law
Lawmakers are getting into high 'spirits'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sunday morning brunches are best with a cocktail.
New York lawmakers have rolled back a Prohibition-era law which forbids the sale of alcohol on Sunday mornings in a bid to make the beverage industry more competitive.
Approved by governor Andrew Cuomo, bars, taverns and restaurants will be able to sell alcoholic drinks from 10am.
The former Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, imposed 80 years ago, stated that alcohol could not be sold until midday on a Sunday.
Governor Cuomo called it an “archaic blue law” which imposed restrictions on certain activities during what is described as “the day of rest”.
Senate majority leader John Flanagan said in a statement: “There was broad consensus between the Governor and Legislature that New York's blue laws were outdated and in need of reform, specifically the provision which barred those enjoying brunch from purchasing an alcoholic beverage before noon on Sunday.”
The law is good news for the nearly 900 wineries, breweries, distilleries and cideries in the state.
There will also be permits up for grabs which will enable certain outlets to sell drinks from 8am in areas outside New York City.
Microbreweries - popular in part thanks to "hipster" neighbourhoods like Williamsburg in Brooklyn - have grown by 263 per cent in the past six years, from 40 in 2010 to 145 in 2016.
New Yorkers purchasing wine as housewarming or dinner party gifts will soon be able to pick up the wrapping paper and cards at the same time, as the agreement will allow liquor stores to sell gift wrapping and gift bags to customers.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments