Photo: Jay Willett/WBZ NewsRadio
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — Boston leaders are making use of a new law rolled into the state's FY26 budget.
Mayor Michelle Wu announced that Boston is filing an ordinance to opt into a new state law, allowing businesses that already possess a beer and liquor license to upgrade to a full liquor license.
Restaurant owners are excited about the change.
“Because we’re in the Chinatown community, everybody works very late, and it’s very hard for them to enjoy a good cuisine and a place to drink,” said one restaurant owner. “Because of this license, we hope that we’ll attract more customers along with their lifestyle.”
Both Mayor Wu and Chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means Aaron Michlewitz had some kind words for Boston vendors.
“Our small businesses make Boston, Boston,” said Mayor Wu. “[Now they can] offer a full menu to their customers, grounded with this new revenue source.”
Earlier this year, Boston received 225 new liquor licenses for restaurants, the largest since prohibition. Each neighborhood has varying amounts available.
The Boston City Council still must sign on once the ordinance has arrived.
WBZ NewsRadio’s Jay Willett (@JayWillettWBZ) reports.