Strolling through downtown Macon with a cocktail is no longer limited to Fridays.
The Macon-Bibb County Commission has temporarily relaxed liquor laws to allow open containers of alcohol outside in downtown areas from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. every night for the rest of the year, local news outlets report.
Commissioners say they're trying to help businesses that have been hit by a decline in patronage because of COVID-19. Previously, outdoor drinking was allowed only during events of the first Friday of each month.
"This supports the health of entrepreneurship and those business owners that are suffering," said Mayor Pro Tem Al Tillman "It's time for us to get on board and let's help our businesses any way we can."
Drinks must be bought in designated cups from certain businesses and people must wear a wristband proving that it's legal for them to drink.
Three commissioners opposed the plan, saying it could cause further spread of COVID-19 and other problems.
"I want everybody to be able to survive down there but I don't see it seven days a week, especially on Sunday," Commissioner Mallory Jones said. "I think you're going to have a hard time with enforcement. You're going to encourage activities you don't want."
Mayor Robert Reichert told commissioners that downtown group NewTown Macon will watch out for problems.
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