News Summary
California legislators have introduced bill AB 342 aimed at extending the last call for alcohol service in designated hospitality zones to 4 a.m. on weekends and holidays. Assemblymember Matt Haney sponsors the bill, advocating for its potential to boost local economies and tourism as downtown areas struggle to recover from pandemic impacts. The legislation faces challenges regarding safety and opposition from some local business owners, as California’s current alcohol regulations appear out of sync with other states. The Assembly Governmental Organization Committee is set to review the bill on April 23.
California Proposes New Bill to Extend Last Call for Alcohol
In a bid to breathe some life back into California’s nightlife, state legislators have introduced a new bill, AB 342, which aims to create “hospitality zones” throughout the state. If passed, this bill would allow cities to extend the last call for alcohol service to 4 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and state holidays. Currently, bars and nightclubs in California are required to stop alcohol sales by 2 a.m., and the proposed change has stirred excitement among local businesses and nightlife enthusiasts alike.
Legislators Weigh in on the Bill
The primary sponsor of the bill is Assemblymember Matt Haney from San Francisco. Haney believes that the extension of alcohol service hours can help boost tourism and support local organizations still recovering from the pandemic. This isn’t the first time Haney has pushed for such measures—he attempted a similar extension in 2022, which ultimately failed to pass through the Assembly. Interestingly, a previous proposal by State Senator Scott Weiner in 2018 was passed by the Legislature but was vetoed by former Governor Jerry Brown.
The Current State of California’s Downtown Areas
In his capacity as the Chair of the Assembly Select Committee on Downtown Recovery, Haney has voiced concerns about how many California downtown areas have been unable to regain their pre-pandemic vibrancy. These areas often resemble “ghost towns” after 5 p.m., leading to an urgent need for more flexibility to attract visitors during evening and weekend hours.
Advocates for the bill argue that a lively nightlife can have a significant positive impact on various sectors, including retail, arts, restaurants, housing, and conventions.
What’s on the Horizon?
The Assembly Governmental Organization Committee is set to review this bill on April 23. It’s worth noting that last year, Governor Gavin Newsom permitted only one venue, the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, to extend its last call until 4 a.m.. Other states like Nevada, Florida, New York, and Illinois already have laws that permit local extensions to last call hours, making California’s current restrictions feel a bit out of step.
Business Community Reacts
A coalition of state lawmakers and business leaders in Los Angeles have come together to support AB 342, emphasizing its potential economic advantages. Assemblymembers Mark Gonzalez and Sade Elhawary have expressed their enthusiasm, highlighting the importance of revitalizing the hospitality sector, especially given the downturn in tourism and major events.
With international events like the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, the bill could prove beneficial for businesses across Los Angeles. Maria Salinas, the president and CEO of the LA Area Chamber of Commerce, has also indicated that the new law could enhance California’s appeal for major conventions and events.
Concerns from Local Business Owners
As part of the proposed law, businesses wishing to operate beyond 2 a.m. in these hospitality zones would need to pay a $2,500 fee for a special license. This aspect of the bill is likely to stir some discussions among local businesses, especially those who have seen better days before the pandemic struck.
What’s Next?
As the bill moves forward, local governments will be tasked with managing these hospitality zones while also considering public safety and transportation access. The outcome could have a significant impact on California’s nightlife scene, so stay tuned for updates as the committee reviewing AB 342 gets ready to deliberate!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Times of San Diego
- CBS 8
- 10 News
- Travel Agent Central
- Fox 5 San Diego
- Wikipedia: California
- Google Search: California nightlife laws
- Google Scholar: California alcohol law changes
- Encyclopedia Britannica: California
- Google News: California hospitality zones
