Commission approves 23‑hour alcohol sales at bars and restaurants during World Cup, 7–1

The Unified Government commission voted 7–1 on May 28 to allow bars and restaurants to sell alcoholic beverages for up to 23 hours a day during the World Cup period, with the change reverting after the event.

The proposal, forwarded by the economic development and finance standing committee, would not alter retail liquor-store hours; it would permit on-premises sales in bars and restaurants between 6 a.m. and 5 a.m. the following day during the event window. Commissioner Phil Lopez voiced concerns about increased intoxication and police workload, asking whether additional revenue would be offset by greater public-safety costs: "We're going to turn more revenue, but now we have more drunks and more police presence," Lopez said. Supporters said limiting extended hours to bars and restaurants—rather than retail outlets—would retain on-site controls (bartenders and on-site security) and reduce the risk of house parties fueled by late-night point-of-sale purchases.

Commissioner Carlos Pacheco, who moved approval, and others said the measure was an opt-in arrangement for businesses; establishments would decide whether to extend hours based on staffing and security needs. The commission heard from staff that other municipalities had taken varying approaches and that law enforcement did not anticipate overwhelming additional demand.

Roll call: Binham (yes), Kump (yes), Howard (yes), Ramirez (yes), Hill (yes), Pacheco (yes), Lopez (no), Stites (yes). The motion passed 7–1.

The change aims to support local hospitality businesses during a major international event while confining risks to regulated on-premises venues. Staff said the ordinance would revert to standard hours after the World Cup period and that establishments choosing to operate extended hours remain responsible for liquor-liability and compliance.