Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the State Liquor Authority will temporarily suspend enforcement of alcohol service hours on the morning of February 22, allowing bars and restaurants to open early for U.S. hockey fans to watch the Olympic gold medal game. The suspension applies from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.
This measure is limited to areas not currently under a State of Emergency due to ongoing blizzard conditions. Hochul emphasized public safety in affected communities, stating that keeping people safe and off the roads remains a priority.
Recalling her own experience during the 1980 Olympic hockey game, Hochul said, “I still remember watching the 1980 game as a college student at Syracuse University, working in a pizza shop. The whole place stopped and watched together. I hope a new generation of New Yorkers gets that same moment tomorrow.”
She concluded with encouragement for the national team: “Go U.S.A.!”