Assembly Bill 1687, introduced by Assembly Members Jones-Sawyer and Calderon, amends the Outdoor Advertising Act, which regulates advertising displays visible from public highways. The bill specifically addresses exemptions for certain advertising displays related to arenas, allowing for displays to be used for advertising products, goods, or services sold on the premises of an arena or that are marketed according to a sponsorship marketing plan. The authorization for these displays is now extended until January 1, 2028, creating a structure that permits localized advertising while maintaining certain regulatory standards.
The bill stipulates that in order for the advertising display to qualify for an exemption, the sponsorship marketing plan must be active for a minimum period—either for at least one week during a sports season or for a duration of at least 30 days outside a sports season. These requirements are targeted at ensuring that only legitimate advertising based on sustained partnership is permitted, thus providing a framework that benefits both the advertisers and the venues involved.
The legislative sentiment surrounding AB 1687 is largely supportive, as evidenced by the voting history that shows unanimous approval (78 yeas to 0 nays) during the Assembly Third Reading on May 29, 2019. Proponents argue that the bill supports economic activity by allowing arenas to better market themselves and their events through advertising, which is essential for venues that often rely on varied revenue streams to remain viable. Moreover, there is an understanding among supporters that some regulatory flexibility in advertising could ultimately enhance the public's engagement with local sporting and entertainment events.
However, potential points of contention arise regarding the balance of advertising regulation and local governance. Critics may raise concerns about the proliferation of signage and its impact on community aesthetics or safety, especially along public highways. There are apprehensions that less stringent regulations might lead to visual clutter and could undermine local decisions regarding advertising controls that address community-specific needs. The continued oversight and adherence to local ordinances regarding these displays will be crucial to mitigating such concerns.