BOSTON—State lawmakers have approved a bill that would allow package stores to open on the day after Christmas.

Under current Massachusetts law, when Christmas falls on a Sunday -- as it does this year -- liquor stores must also remain closed on the Monday after the holiday.

The Legislature, meeting informally on Thursday, approved and sent to Gov. Deval Patrick's desk a change in the law that would permit liquor sales on the day after Christmas.

A spokeswoman for the governor says the bill is currently being reviewed and that Patrick will decide early next week whether to sign it.

© Copyright 2011 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.