Alcoholic beverages: hours of sale.
The bill highlights a collaborative approach where local governments must assess the implications of additional serving hours on their communities. Requirements include demonstrating a plan for mitigating public safety and transportation impacts, with local law enforcement budgets required to be increased by at least 5%. Additionally, cities will need to gather crime statistics and health reports, ensuring a thorough evaluation of how extended hours might affect public safety.
Assembly Bill 3195, introduced by Assembly Member Haney, aims to amend the Business and Professions Code concerning the sale hours of alcoholic beverages. Specifically, starting January 1, 2025, the bill proposes that on-sale licensees be allowed to serve alcoholic beverages until 4 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and certain holidays, provided they obtain an additional serving hours license. This license will be contingent upon local governing bodies adopting specific ordinances that meet defined requirements. The intention is to create a framework for increased economic activity during late-night hours while ensuring local oversight.
While the bill encourages local control and economic development, there are concerns regarding potentially rising crime rates during the extended hours. By creating an additional serving hours license, certain conditions will apply, such as notification of law enforcement and local residents regarding any applications for the license. Critics may voice concerns about the necessity of increased policing and the effects on community safety, particularly with regards to the rise of DUI incidents and domestic violence incidents.