State rejects Seattle’s request for later bar hours

The Washington State Liquor Control Board voted Wednesday to deny Seattle’s effort to extend bar hours beyond 2 a.m.

Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn and other city officials had hoped to make last call later, arguing that law enforcement is burdened by a mass of drunks tumbling out of night clubs and bars in places like Pioneer Square and Belltown.

Under current state law, bars can’t sell alcohol between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.

The board voted 2-1 to reject the city’s request.

Each board member had their own reasons for their decisions, but it appears the number of law enforcement agencies around the state against the plan, such as the state patrol and Mothers Against Drunk Driving, carried a lot of weight.

The opponents argued that staggered closing times increase the risk of drunk driving, and any economic boost isn’t worth the risks. They believe longer hours would encourage clients to stay drunk longer, and cause DUI rates to View full post on “drunk” News