Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed the bill allowing New York bars and restaurants to sell liquor earlier on Sundays.
The new law will also reduce burdensome paperwork and fees for wineries, distilleries, breweries and cider mills statewide.
The Brunch Bill is now law. So, what's the best brunch drink? @WKBW
— Jeff Rusack (@JeffRusack) September 7, 2016
Bars and restaurants will now be able to sell alcohol beginning at 10am on Sundays; the old law had a noon start time. Establishments will also be able to apply for special permits 12 times a year so they can sell alcohol even earlier on special occasions, at 8am.
New York liquor law had not been updated in decades and many had called for an overhaul, blaming the old law for making it difficult for companies to operate in the state.
For restaurants that serve Sunday brunch, like the Black Sheep on the Buffalo's West Side, the newly signed Brunch Bill means more Bloody Marys, which means more money.
“Especially this being such a big football town. Sunday is pretty much a holiday pretty much for 16 weeks so it was kind of strange to have these laws in place,” said Steven Gedra, the owner of The Black Sheep.
The Sunday football rush is crucial for places near New Era Field, like O’Neill’s Stadium Inn and Grill.
“Two more hours of drinking, which is awesome for sales,” said Kristen Cerrone, with O'Neill's.
“Usually people are already waiting. 11:59, the bar is packed from wall to wall,” added Jason Anderson, also with O'Neill's.
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