Another push is underway to extend alcohol service hours in California—but not without pushback. In a recent interview on The Roggin Report, legal analyst Walter Clark broke down the latest bill that could allow bars and restaurants to serve alcohol until 4 a.m., two hours later than current state law allows.
“This is the fifth attempt,” said Clark. “They’ve tried it before, and it’s failed every time. But the alcoholic beverage industry is powerful and well-funded—they’ll keep trying until they get it through.”
The proposed legislation would not mandate the later hours statewide. Instead, it would allow individual cities to opt in, provided participating businesses pay a $2,500 fee. Supporters, including the California Nightlife Association, argue it’s about bolstering tourism and giving cities more flexibility to provide “world-class nightlife.”
But Clark warns that the public safety risks far outweigh the economic benefits. “People are going to be leaving bars at 4 a.m. and hitting the roads just as others are starting their day,” he said. “That’s dangerous.”
He also called out the weakening of the Dram Shop Act, which once allowed bars to be held liable for overserving customers who later caused harm. “Now they’re shielded from that responsibility,” Clark added. “It’s not fair to the public.”
While the proposal is gaining traction in some circles, Clark believes common sense will prevail. “This isn’t something California needs. It doesn’t make us safer, and it doesn’t make us better.”
For more legal insights, visit Walter Clark Law Group.
For more from The Roggin Report, head to NBCPalmSprings.com.
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By: NBC Palm Springs
April 11, 2025
