Mary Ann's says Mass. only

Popular local bar Mary Ann's has instituted a new ID policy as of Tuesday. Only Massachusetts government-issued identification will be accepted.

"We no longer accept out-of-state ID cards, even with backup ID," confirmed a Mary Ann's bouncer, Dan, who wished for his last name to be withheld.

Mary Ann's employees did not know when the policy would be lifted, or if it would ever be lifted. "As far as we're concerned, that is the new policy," he said.

Problems with underage drinkers using fake IDs have posed trouble for the bar, which has been found in violation of state liquor laws with such incidents.

"The liquor licensing board made a suggestion for us to change the policy, and we complied," said another Mary Ann's employee. "If we get caught serving underage persons again, we will have to close at 11 p.m. for an entire year."

The Heights learned earlier today of Mary Ann's being shut down altogether and taken to court; a spokesperson for the bar declined to comment on the circumstances that lead to the closure. Subsequent reopening brought with it the new ID policy.

"Since we've had the policy, business has dropped significantly," said the employee. "We had five customers last night and none so far tonight. Forty to 60 percent of our customers are from out of state."

During the interview, two 21-year-old Boston College students with out of state IDs attempted to enter the bar but were denied service.

Patrons who are from out of state can use a U.S. passport or apply for a Massachusetts liquor license in order to be served at Mary Ann's. "You do not need to supply a backup ID with either a Massachusetts ID or passport," clarified the employee.

The staff did not know of any other bars in the area that follow a similar policy.

Unfortunately for BC students who are 21 years or older, the convenience of Mary Ann's close proximity has been overshadowed by the barrier created by this ID policy. Unless students carry passports with them or apply for a Mass. ID, they can no longer enjoy drinks at Mary Ann's.

"Is Mary Ann's another country now?" said Kevin Reilly, A&S '06 and a New York resident, upon learning of the bar's new policy.

"It was a great place," said a Mary Ann's bartender, "but the dream is over now."