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Milwaukee bars to possibly stay open until 4 a.m. during Democratic National Convention

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The city is preparing for 2020 DNC festivities with a proposal to extend bar time to 4 a.m. during the convention.

The new bar time would require a change in Wisconsin state law, according to the Milwaukee Business Journal.

The Wisconsin Restaurant Association has already reached out to leaders in the Wisconsin Legislature, as well as Gov. Tony Evers about the law change.

"We don't want to give the impression that we roll up the sidewalks at midnight," said Wisconsin Restaurant Association President Kristine Hillmer.

The 4 a.m. closing time would be in effect for Milwaukee, Waukesha and Washington counties. Hillmer says other southeast Wisconsin counties could be added to this list as well.

Hillmer also notes the decision to remain open past the current closing time of 2 a.m. would be up to the owner of each establishment.

Current Wisconsin state law says businesses with licenses to serve liquor have to be closed from 2 a.m until 6 a.m. Monday through Friday. Closing time is 2:30 a.m. on Saturdays.