Gov. Baker ‘OK’ With State’s Happy Hour Ban

BOSTON (AP) _ Anyone pining for a return of the happy hour in Massachusetts bars and restaurants won't be happy with Gov. Charlie Baker's support for the three-decade ban.

During his monthly ``Ask the Governor'' program on WGBH-FM Thursday, a caller asked the Republican if he'd consider lifting the state prohibition against discounted drinks served at certain hours.

Baker said that although it might make him an ``old fuddy duddy,'' he said he had no problem with the ban.

He recalled that the 1984 law was passed after tragic accidents involving people who had been ``over-served'' during happy hours and other drink promotions.

Massachusetts is among a few states that still have such bans. Illinois recently repealed portions of its 1989 law that restricted discounting alcoholic drinks.