'Last call' bill in California is different from other versions

'Last call' bill in California is different from other versions

A new push to extend alcohol sales until 4 a.m. in California is making its way through the Legislature, with supporters saying it can be good for business and critics saying it can be dangerous for the public.

SAN FRANCISCO - A new push to extend alcohol sales until 4 a.m. in California is making its way through the Legislature again, with supporters saying it can be good for business and critics saying it can be dangerous for the public. 

A similar bill, authored by Sen. Wiener, passed both chambers in 2018, before getting vetoed by then-Governor Jerry Brown.

This version of the "last call" bill is different from years before, its authors say. 

State Assemblyman Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) says AB 342, co-sponsored by nightlife advocacy organization CalNight, will now satisfy those who have historically voted against it. Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) is also an author of the bill.

Instead of having a blanket extension on when a bar could close, this bill introduces nightlife in hospitality zones.

A city in California could opt into the program and then designate areas where the new rule could apply.

And even then, the hours' extension would only be allowed on Friday and Saturday nights.

Those against the bill often say longer drinking hours could lead to a higher risk of drinking and driving.

The bill cleared the Assembly floor earlier this year; now it's making its way through Senate committees.

AB 342 was set to be heard by the Committee on Governmental Organization, but chairperson Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) announced the item was pulled from the agenda.

KTVU reached out to Assemblymember Haney to ask why.

If passed and signed into law, it would take effect next summer.