By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to the governor a measure that would allow alcohol-serving establishments to accept all out-of-state motor vehicle licenses and Global Entry cards issued by the United States Customs and Border Protection.

“This vitally important economic measure will support our restaurants, bars and other entertainment venues as they continue to fully recover from losses experienced during the pandemic and allow our out-of-state visitors to enjoy a drink, if they choose,” said House sponsor Rep. Paul McMurtry (d-Dedham).

“A constituent of mine reached out regarding Global Entry cards, and how she had been refused service in attempting to use one to purchase alcohol,” said Senate sponsor Sen. Pat Jehlen (D-Somerville). “These cards require two rounds of interviews, one with Customs and Border Protection, and another with a Global Entry Enrollment Center. You must also provide your passport and one other form of identification. Only after this extensive process can you receive the Global Entry Card, which includes the individual’s photo, full name and date of birth. Over 5 million people have gone through this process, and it feels unnecessary to bar them from utilizing this form of identification in the commonwealth for the purchase of alcohol.”