Updated 1 hour ago - Sports

Healey signs bill extending last call for World Cup

Steph Solis

Gillette Stadium, which will be rebranded as "Boston Stadium" during the World Cup. Photo: Steph Solis/Axios

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey swiftly signed a bill that lets cities and towns create public drinking districts and extend alcohol service until 3am this summer.

Why it matters: The last-minute change to alcohol service, which comes five days before the first World Cup match in Foxborough, allows the state to offer bar and restaurant service on par with other host cities.

Catch up quick: The bill approved by the House on Thursday allowed extended alcohol service and public drinking districts until July 31.

At first, it seemed like the bill would get jammed up by conflicting language, as the Senate amended the proposal to allow the districts until Sept. 7.
The House version ultimately won out Monday afternoon, and the legislature sent the bill to the governor's desk.

The latest: Healey, who publicly supported the later alcohol service, signed the bill within hours.

What they're saying: "This bill will provide more opportunities for people to celebrate with their community for the World Cup and the other exciting events we have happening this summer for MA250," Healey said in a statement.

Millions are expected to visit Massachusetts for the FIFA tournament, Tall Ships and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

What we're watching: Now comes the scramble for local officials to approve later service and set up public drinking districts ahead of Saturday's match at Boston Stadium.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to reflect that Gov. Maura Healey signed the bill into law.

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Healey signs bill extending last call for World Cup

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