ATLANTA — Post 3 At-Large Atlanta City Council member Keisha Sean Waites withdrew the Atlanta Hospitality Act, a proposal to extend bar hours in the city, during Monday’s Public Safety and Legal Administration committee meeting.
The committee voted to file the legislation. It would have extended the times bars could serve from 2:30 a.m. to 4 a.m.
“During our Public Safety and Legal Administration committee meeting, my colleagues, business owners, and the public started a meaningful dialogue that centers our understanding from the perspectives of various community leaders and hospitality stakeholders,” Waites said in an announcement. “In the aftermath of COVID-19, business stakeholders have voiced concerns regarding the financial losses incurred during the pandemic. For nearly two years, my office received emails and communication from restaurant and bar owners requesting support in modifying the closing hours in Atlanta.
“The Atlanta Hospitality Act was introduced to initiate a formal conversation, primarily, to get a sense of depth of the financial losses, consequent loss of livelihood, and business closures,” Waites added. “It is also intended to facilitate a dialogue between bar and restaurant owners and the city government regarding potential future legislation modifying liquor hours for the city.”