Boston to Receive 264 New Liquor Licenses

The Massachusetts Senate has approved a bill to grant Boston 264 new liquor licenses, surpassing the House's earlier endorsement of 205 licenses. This measure aims to invigorate the economy in underserved neighborhoods by reducing the high costs associated with obtaining liquor licenses, which can reach up to $600,000 on the secondary market. The new licenses will be distributed across 13 ZIP codes, including Roxbury, Dorchester, Mattapan, and the South End, with six new non-transferable licenses per year for three years in each targeted ZIP code, specifically designed to assist minority-owned businesses. The legislation now moves to a conference committee to reconcile differences between the House and Senate versions before the session deadline. Proponents, including Sen. Liz Miranda, believe this bill will help bridge the racial wealth gap by revitalizing cultural hubs and supporting small hospitality businesses in diverse communities.