If you like meeting up with friends after work for some fun and cocktails, this news should make you happy.

Happy Hour Is Back!

Governor Rauner signed into legislation, effective immediately, that Happy Hour drink specials can be added back to the menus of your favorite watering hole. The discounted specials have been banned in Illinois since the late 80’s due to concerns about excessive drinking and impaired driving.

The new legislation allows drink specials up to 4 hours each day and up to 15 hours per week. But it doesn’t allow volume specials such as 2 for 1 or mega drinks. It also prohibits any drink specials after 10pm. Those in favor of the law says it will help drive up tax revenue for both the state and local governments with an expected increase in alcohol sales.

The governor’s office says that bringing back Happy Hour helps the states hospitality industry. Yea….that’s it Governor. It will also help out the states DUI business! But, that’s just my personal opinion. It goes without saying, have fun but don’t drink and drive! –Jim