By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law 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.

  “Massachusetts has been the only state in the entire United States that did not permit retailers of alcohol beverages to rely on a valid out-of-state ID for the purchase of alcoholic beverages,” said a spokesperson for the Massachusetts Package Stores Association (MASSPACK), a non-profit trade organization representing locally owned retailers of beer, wine and spirits headquartered in Massachusetts. “This regulation was archaic and irrational. It also impeded commerce across the state.”

  “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)