By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a bill adding 225 new alcohol licenses for the City of Boston over the next three years.

Supporters said the licenses would be distributed across 13 Boston zip codes, expanding equity for restaurant owners in historically underrepresented parts of the city and boosting economic opportunity in communities of color that have been systemically excluded for decades.

“I’m proud to have worked with my colleagues in the House and Senate to add additional liquor licenses to underserved neighborhoods across Boston,” said Sen. Nick Collins (D-South Boston). “These additional licenses will improve the sustainability of existing small businesses, create opportunities for new businesses, and create economic vibrancy on our main streets.”

“I am proud to support this equitable proposal that will give an economic boost to restaurants and small businesses across Boston, especially in communities of color that historically haven’t had much access to these licenses,” said Sen. Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett).

“Expanding liquor licenses in these Boston neighborhoods means expanding economic opportunity and equity into critical areas that have been underrepresented for too long,” said Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland).