While Sydney chokes on the ever over-reaching laws of the NSW Government with other states soon to follow a major borough in the United States just decriminalised drinking in public.

Those living it up in Manhattan, possibly the most well known borough of New York City can now enjoy sipping back a cold one outside the confines of a licensed bar or restaurant without fear of arrest.

Although not legalised it does mean police resources can be pushed towards real crime according to Mayor Bill de Blasio;

“Using summonses instead of arrests for low-level offences is an intuitive and modern solution that will help make sure resources are focused on our main priority: addressing threats to public safety,” adding “Today’s reforms allow our hardworking police officers to concentrate their efforts on the narrow group of individuals driving violent crime in New York City. This plan will also help safely prevent unnecessary gaol time for low-level offences.”

Another major benefit is to allow parents with children to head to a park and do adult things like drink an adult beverage that they can legally buy as an adult.

In other words, you can drink in public, just don’t be a drongo about it!

Meanwhile in Sydney we can’t;

– drink in public
– buy alcohol after 10pm
– can’t enter a licensed venue after 1:30am
– can’t purchase alcohol inside of a licensed venue after 3:00am
– can’t have shots or single shot drinks ie whisky after midnight

Guess which way we’re heading… Those wanting to make a stand should follow Keep Sydney Open and head along to the next Reclaim The Streets March 19th.

source: Gizmodo