In addition to its annual impaired driving program, Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission [ABCC] enforcement team investigators will be checking in on restaurants and bars throughout the state, making sure they’re complying with COVID Safety Standards and the 10 PM mandatory closing time on New Year’s Eve.
“This holiday season is unlike any other and for that reason alone we must remain diligent,” said State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg, who oversees the ABCC. “We want to ensure that everyone is celebrating the holiday safely, while also limiting the risk of exposure to themselves and loved ones.”
According to the ABCC, investigators have found the majority of restaurants to be in compliance with the Governor’s Orders and Safety Standards. Facility layouts are maintaining proper distancing and restaurant staff and patrons have been wearing proper facial coverings.
However, to date, 38 bars have had their liquor licenses indefinitely suspended, when the commission found that they had flagrantly violated the Safety Standards while several more have pending hearings.
Goldbery said the impaired driving enforcement efforts will focus on bars previously identified as those most frequently known to sell alcohol to a convicted drunk driver.
“These efforts support safer roads throughout Massachusetts,” Goldberg said. “This kind of enforcement establishes a long-term deterrence for bar owners from over-serving, helping keep the public safe.”
According to the ABCC, alcohol is involved in 40% of traffic crash fatalities resulting in 17,013 fatalities and injuring an estimated 275,000 people annually. Data indicates that well over 50% of impaired driving arrests originate at bars.
