The Overview
If you hold an on-premises alcohol license in New York, you may now stay open until 4 a.m. statewide between June 11 and July 20, 2026, during the FIFA World Cup, under a law Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) signed.
New York's S 9990, which authorizes eligible on-premises alcohol licensees to remain open for extended hours statewide, became law when Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) signed it June 9. The extended hours applied statewide from June 11 through July 20, 2026.
What the Law Does
Eligible on-premises alcohol licensees across New York were authorized to stay open until 4 a.m. for the duration of the World Cup tournament window. That covers bars and restaurants, according to Spectrum News. The law was temporary by design, tied specifically to the tournament schedule rather than a permanent change to New York's standard closing rules.
Gov. Hochul framed the law as a win for both fans and the state economy. "From the first kick to the last whistle, bars and restaurants across our state can stay open throughout the tournament, bringing New Yorkers together to cheer on every goal and supporting small businesses across the state," she said, according to NEWS10 ABC.
Legislative Status
Sen. James Skoufis (D) sponsored the bill, with cosponsors Sen. Jeremy Cooney (D) and Sen. Jessica Ramos (D). The Senate passed it 60-0 on June 4 and the Assembly passed it 132-0 on June 5, with no opposition in either chamber.
Sen. James Skoufis, the bill's sponsor, said the extra hours were meant to help both visitors and local businesses: "With 1.2 million visitors expected to arrive in the region for the World Cup this summer, this temporary expansion of operating hours will make this once-in-a-lifetime event memorable for New York fans, as well as a boon for small businesses."
---
AllCiv makes it easy to stay politically informed and involved.
---
Spot something wrong? Report an issue with this article