Illinois brings back happy hour, but not all bar owners are saying "cheers" to new law

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Happy hour is back in Illinois — but not all bar owners are saying "cheers" to the new law.

Pitchers Pub and Pizzeria owner Lloyd Cueto in Belleville supports the change. He says he's lost business to out-of-state bars since Illinois banned happy hour in the 1980s. But Tumble Inn owner Tobin Herges in Champaign says he doesn't rely on drink specials, and doesn't imagine he'll add a happy hour.

Gov. Bruce Rauner signed the measure Wednesday and the law took effect immediately. Proponents believe happy hour will generate tax revenue through increased alcohol sales.

Since happy hour was banned, drink discounts have been allowed provided they weren't limited to particular hours. The new law lets bar offer specials up to four hours a day and 15 hours a week.