Legislation allowing extended bar hours during World Cup games becomes law

Gov. Dan McKee on Friday signed into law legislation passed by the General Assembly that will allow bars and restaurants to stay open later during 2026 World Cup games as long as local licensing authorities agree.

The measure (2026-H 8009A, 2026-S 2627A) permits municipal licensing authorities to grant temporary periods for extended indoor service hours under existing liquor licenses between June 11 and July 3 for operation until up to 4 a.m. with liquor service until up to 3 a.m. The service hours would apply to certain matches occurring during this period.

RI lawmakers weigh extended bar hours during World Cup

Should municipalities decide to take advantage of the legislation, it would only apply to FIFA match days — 12 in June and two in July. Businesses that want to stay open later must seek approval from their local licensing board 14 days in advance.

“The FIFA World Cup is by far the largest sporting event in the world and presents Rhode Island with a unique economic opportunity,” said Rep. Joshua Giraldo, a Central Falls Democrat who sponsored the bill in the House, in a statement. “The bill provides municipalities with the flexibility to participate in the economic opportunities of this tournament by providing patrons with a safe venue to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime event.”

Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts, will host seven World Cup matches. The event is projected to generate over $330 million in economic impact for Rhode Island, attracting nearly 1 million visitors to the Providence metro area.

Sen. Matthew L. LaMountain, a Warwick Democrat, sponsored the legislation in the Senate. 

The House voted 54-8 to approve LaMountain’s bill on Thursday, the same day the Senate approved Giraldo’s with a 30-6 vote. The House passed its version on May 5. The Senate passed its version May 7.