#California #San Rafael #Alcohol Justice #AB 342

Public Health Advocates Condemn California's 4 A.M. Bar Bill

In a move that has sparked outrage among public health advocates, the California Assembly Committee on Governmental Organization has advanced the controversial AB 342, known as the 4 A.M. Bar Bill. This decision, which opens the door for extended alcohol sales into the early morning hours, has drawn condemnation from Alcohol Justice and various other advocacy groups citing decades of evidence linking late-night alcohol sales to increased crime, dangerous driving, and neighborhood disturbances.

Setback After Years of Opposition

For years, California legislators have grappled with the implications of extended bar hours, understanding the adverse impact on public safety. Despite previous attempts to pass similar legislation being met with failure, the current iteration led by State Senator Scott Wiener and Assemblymember Matt Haney has resurfaced, showcasing a persistent push against the tide of public health recommendations. On April 23, 2025, the committee hearing saw a notable split; seven legislators stood firmly against the bill, signaling a compelling acknowledgment of the risks involved, while the remaining 15 chose to overlook substantial testimony from health advocates.

Legislators casting a vote against the bill included Laurie Davies, Jesse Gabriel, and Diane Dixon, among others, who recognized the bill's potential ramifications on community safety. Raul Verdugo, Advocacy Director of Alcohol Justice, expressed disappointment, stating, “They had the chance to stand up for their constituents, and they failed to rise to the occasion.” This sentiment underscores the frustration felt by many advocates, who believe this legislative action negates the voices of those impacted by alcohol-related harms.

The Evidence against Late-Night Sales

Numerous studies and reports highlight the correlation between late-night alcohol availability and a spike in public health crises. Increased alcohol consumption during late hours is consistently linked to heightened incidents of violence, drunk driving, and utilization of emergency services. Communities that have previously extended alcohol sales, such as Miami Beach, have exhibited alarming trends in alcohol-related harms, prompting them to pursue legal avenues to reverse legislation that permitted such changes. This pattern of harm is echoed among California voters, with a recent poll revealing that over 80% of those surveyed oppose further extensions to alcohol sales.

The public outcry against AB 342 has been pronounced, leading to more than 4,000 emails sent to the Assembly GO Committee by concerned citizens. This surge in advocacy reflects a growing concern over public safety and accountability from state legislators.

A Comprehensive Approach to Alcohol Policy

In light of the ongoing struggles with alcohol-related harm in California, advocates are urging for consistent last call times, which the U.S. Community Preventive Services Task Force has recommended to mitigate violence and driving under the influence. AB 342's advancement appears to contradict these scientific findings, provoking a response from Alcohol Justice which has pledged to fight against the bill as it continues its journey through the legislative process.

Cruz Avila, Executive Director of Alcohol Justice, affirmed the organization's commitment to prioritizing evident-based policies that safeguard communities. “This bill isn't law yet. It’s a long way to the Governor’s Desk, and we have the science on our side,