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Poll results

Happy hour, a time when restaurants and bars serve free or discounted drinks to attract more customers, has been prohibited in Massachusetts for 40 years. As the first state to outlaw the practice, happy hour was made illegal in Massachusetts in 1984 following a series of drunk driving fatalities. Yet, the days of happy hour may be on the horizon as the Senate approved an amendment allowing willing communities to offer discounted specials on alcoholic beverages on July 11. 

Should Massachusetts reinstate happy hour for bars and restaurants?
Yes. Legalizing happy hour will provide economic development opportunities for businesses. (43%, 108 VOTES)
Yes. There is not enough data correlating higher rates of drunk driving with legalized happy hour. (6%, 15 VOTES)
Yes. It is the individual’s responsibility not to drink and drive, and governments shouldn't get involved. (17%, 43 VOTES)
No. Drunk driving is still a very real issue, and prohibiting happy hour helps mitigate risk. (23%, 58 VOTES)
No. Happy hour encourages overconsumption, and rowdy customers make the dining experience less enjoyable. (12%, 30 VOTES)
Poll Description

Happy hour, a time when restaurants and bars serve free or discounted drinks to attract more customers, has been prohibited in Massachusetts for 40 years. As the first state to outlaw the practice, happy hour was made illegal in Massachusetts in 1984 following a series of drunk driving fatalities. Yet, the days of happy hour may be on the horizon as the Senate approved an amendment allowing willing communities to offer discounted specials on alcoholic beverages on July 11. 

  • 254 Votes
  • 2 Comments
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2 Comments

  • July 30, 2024

    I do not believe in big government or small government. I believe in good government.
    So did this country's founders: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS".

  • Rich Duguay
    July 29, 2024

    Surprised that after over 125 votes almost 50% are yes. Assuming most forgot (or were not yet born) that banning Happy Hour in 1984 was to reduce drunken driving incidents and fatalities. Not quite sure how some can compare economic development opportunities with public safety and responsible alcohol consumption. I guess we don't have any more issues with DUI because everyone is taking an Uber.