Legislation that would allow alcohol sales in bars if St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Sunday overwhelmingly passed the state House on Wednesday.
House Bill 784, sponsored by Rep. Ron Stephens, R-Savannah, lets local governments decide whether they want to allow alcohol sales in establishments other than restaurants in those particular years. Current law only allows sales of alcohol for on-site consumption in restaurants — that is places that derive a majority of their income from food sales.
Last year’s St. Patrick’s Day was on a Sunday. The holiday this year is on Monday, March 17.
Savannah hosts one of the country’s largest St. Patrick’s Day parades and festivals.
Stephens found little opposition as the bill passed 148-8 and now goes to the Senate. But he had to promise to host his colleagues if it passed.
“Assuming we can get out of here by the 17th, can we all come to your house?” asked Rep. Edward Lindsey, R-Atlanta.
“My door is always open,” Stephens assured him.
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