New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed new laws aimed at helping bars and restaurants in New York City open faster and stay open longer.

The goal is to cut down on paperwork and allow businesses to get temporary liquor permits more quickly.

"We were waiting for this for so long," said Sandra Jaquez, owner of two restaurants in Inwood. Jaquez, who also serves as the president of the New York State Latino Restaurant Bar and Lounge Association, praised the new laws, saying they will allow businesses to start making money faster.

"So basically, if an establishment that you rent did not have a permit within the last two years, you were not able to open," Jaquez explained. "That put a burden on a lot of our members... and we all know if you do not have liquor, it’s very difficult to operate a business in New York City and be successful."

One of the new laws lets businesses start serving alcohol right after they apply for a full liquor license. This change dramatically reduces the wait time, which used to take months. The second law extends temporary liquor permits from 90 days to 180 days, giving businesses more time to run without needing to reapply for additional permits.

"Everyone is just ecstatic that they could finally now come in, open their business on a temporary license," Jaquez said. "Obviously, there are some restrictions, but you're still able to operate and open your doors."

Jaquez also noted how this change will benefit potential business owners looking to rent space in new developments in Inwood.

"Down the street, there’s a new building that just came in that’s going to have a lot of commercial space," she said. "There’s like three buildings five blocks away that will also have commercial space. So because of this new law, now they can get a new liquor license, they can get a temp license, whereas before, they weren't going to be able to do that."

Hochul emphasized that these new laws are already in effect and encouraged businesses to apply now.