California Assembly Bill AB3117

California 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/24
• Refer: 3/11/24
• Report Pass: 4/4/24
• Refer: 4/4/24
• Report Pass: 4/23/24
• Refer: 4/23/24
• Refer: 5/8/24

Caption

Alcoholic beverages: evidence of majority and identity.

Impact

If enacted, AB 3117 would impact the enforcement of laws regarding the sale of alcoholic beverages to minors. Currently, it is a misdemeanor for individuals under 21 to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages, and businesses face legal repercussions if they are found selling to minors. By allowing digital identification as valid proof of age, the bill would streamline the verification process for businesses while potentially reducing the ability of underage persons to obtain alcohol through improved identity verification methods.

Summary

Assembly Bill 3117, introduced by Assembly Member Wilson, seeks to amend Section 25660 of the Business and Professions Code which pertains to alcoholic beverages. The bill aims to recognize mobile or digital driver's licenses and identification cards as bona fide evidence of majority and identity. This provision is particularly significant as it allows individuals to verify their age and identity digitally, provided such licenses are authorized by the Department of Motor Vehicles without the requirement of a physical card.

Contention

The bill is likely to generate discussions regarding the reliability and security of digital identification. Some stakeholders may express concerns over privacy issues and the potential misuse of digital IDs, while supporters might argue that the technological advancement can facilitate easier and faster age verification. While no notable opposition has been documented yet, as with any legislation pertaining to alcohol sales, the implications for public health and safety may prompt debate during the legislative process.