Massachusetts legislation now allows for the earlier start time.
LUDLOW - Selectman Aaron Saunders proposed allowing establishments in town with liquor licenses to begin serving at 10 a.m. on Sundays instead of noon, but the proposal was defeated by a 3 to 2 vote of the board.
State legislation now allows the earlier start time, Saunders said, in what he called a repeal of “antiquated blue laws.”
“I am not sure this law is antiquated,” Selectmen Chairman William E. Rooney said. He added that he is “not a fan” of serving alcohol Sunday mornings at 10 a.m.
Rooney added, “If the business owners were lobbying for this, I would consider it.”
Members of the Board of Selectmen said they have had no calls from any businesses lobbying for the earlier time.
Saunders said he does not feel the restriction should be kept when state law does not require it.
“I want to make the start time consistent with the 10 a.m. start time permitted every other day,” Saunders said.
Selectman Jason Barroso said he would favor giving businesses the option of serving alcohol starting at 10 a.m. on Sundays.
Selectmen said liquor license owners have been notified of the change in the state law.
“I am hearing no hue and cry for this,” Rooney said.
Selectmen said some businesses may appreciate the later start time since they typically serve alcohol into the early hours of Sunday morning.
“I feel comfortable with not extending the Sunday morning hours,” Selectman Antonio Dos Santos said.
Selectman John DaCruz said he has had no requests from business owners to move up the time to 10 a.m.
Voting in favor of keeping the noon serving hours on Sundays were Rooney, Dos Santos and DaCruz. Voting in opposition were Saunders and Barroso.