OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — The state Liquor Control Board has denied a request by the City of Seattle to extend the closing times of bars and nightclubs.
The board rejected the request on a 2-1 vote Wednesday. Last July, Seattle officials asked the state to allow the city to stagger the times liquor establishments close. Supporters said the change would address violence and disorder that often accompanies the “push out” at closing time. Opponents argued it would mean more alcohol consumption and drunken driving.
Board members Sharon Foster and Ruthann Kurose expressed concerns about public safety in their written statements issued after their ‘no’ votes.
Under current state law, bars can’t sell alcohol between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.
