New Virginia Law Eases Happy Hour Rules

Did you know that Virginia restaurant owners aren't allowed to advertise when they are holding a "happy hour"? Starting later this month, they'll be able to.

Thanks to a new law that goes on the books Jan. 29, restaurants will be able to let potential patrons know what time they can get a deal on drinks.

"Beginning that day Virginia restaurants - remember, bars are still illegal - will be able to advertise the hours of their drink specials. Not drink prices, only hours," writes Kerry Dougherty, opinion columnist for The Virginian-Pilot.

"In other words, the state will magnanimously allow business owners to publicize their product promotions so they can make more money," she writes. "Sort of like capitalism light."