California Senate Advances Bill Allowing 4 a.m. Last Call in Select Downtown Areas
San Diego, CA — A bill that could reshape nightlife in parts of California is moving through the state legislature. Assembly Bill 342, which would allow alcohol sales until 4 a.m. in designated “hospitality zones,” has passed the Assembly and is now under review in the Senate.
What the Bill Would Change
Introduced by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D–San Francisco) and co-authored by Sen. Scott Wiener, AB 342 gives local governments the option to extend alcohol service hours—but only in clearly mapped areas where late-night activity is supported by safety infrastructure.
Cities must:
- Define hospitality zone boundaries
- Coordinate with law enforcement and transit services
- Require annual reports measuring impacts
- Ensure venue operators complete beverage service training and pay a $2,500 fee
If passed, the law would go into effect on June 1, 2026, and sunset in 2031. Full details are available in the Assembly Appropriations Analysis and Assembly Floor Analysis.
Where the Bill Stands Now
AB 342 has already cleared the California Assembly with support from a majority of Democratic lawmakers and is currently being reviewed by the Senate Governmental Organization Committee. Based on its progress, it’s fair to say the bill is viable—but not guaranteed.
Previous attempts to pass similar legislation stalled in the Senate or were vetoed amid concerns from law enforcement and public health groups. However, this version includes stricter zoning requirements and a more localized approach, which may make it more palatable to hesitant legislators.
Political analysts have noted that the bill’s sponsors—Haney and Wiener—are well-positioned within their party, and Governor Newsom has not publicly opposed the measure. While there’s still opposition from advocacy groups like Alcohol Justice, the fact that AB 342 passed the Assembly floor and advanced with committee support improves its chances.
In short, the bill is considered likely to pass, provided it continues to avoid major amendments or organized opposition in the Senate.
Local Impact if It Passes
If AB 342 becomes law, cities like San Diego could choose to create hospitality zones through local ordinance. This wouldn’t immediately change closing times—it would simply allow cities to opt in.
Potential zones could include downtown San Diego, North Park, or areas near UCSD. While La Jolla is not a likely first-mover, changes nearby could influence late-night activity and policy in the broader region.
Haney has positioned the bill as an economic development tool. “World-class cities have world-class nightlife,” he told CalMatters, citing other global cities with later operating hours.
Still, groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving and public safety officials have raised concerns about DUI risks and enforcement challenges, even with the bill’s built-in safeguards.
What Happens Next
The bill must clear the Senate Governmental Organization Committee before heading to the full Senate for a vote. If approved, it would go to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk. Newsom has not taken a position, but he signed off on a similar exception last year for Inglewood’s Intuit Dome.
If passed, cities would begin the opt-in process in 2026. No city would be required to extend hours—only those that create and approve official hospitality zones. Bottom line: AB 342 appears to have more traction than earlier versions, thanks to tighter controls and opt-in flexibility. If it passes, San Diego could decide whether it wants to join the experiment. LaJolla.com will continue tracking developments and local responses as the bill moves forward.
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