In 2025, California State Assembly Member Matt Haney introduced a new bill that would give California cities the ability to extend last call to 4 a.m. in specific areas.
Assembly Bill 342 would allow establishments with the proper licenses to “sell or give alcoholic beverages until 4 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, or specified state holidays within a hospitality zone, defined to include a Hospitality Zone and a Special Event Hospitality Zone established pursuant to the bill’s provisions, as specified.”
Essentially, businesses within Hospitality Zones in cities could extend last call to 4 a.m. if the bill is passed (and with all the correct licenses). So, if the bill is passed, it doesn’t automatically make last call at every establishment at 4 a.m. The bill also states that cities that do open hospitality zones to allow 4 am. last call will have to present a late-night policing plan, including an analysis of how the hospitality zone could impact public safety.
As of July 8, 2025, the bill is currently in committee, but the first hearing was canceled by the Bill’s author. The Bill would still have to pass through the committee and the Second Chamber before being enacted. If approved, the bill would begin on June 1, 2026.
The new bill is intended to boost economic recovery in Downtown areas of cities. San Francisco has frequently been noted for the downtown’s slow recovery after COVID, with ongoing efforts by the local government to draw more people and businesses to the area.
San Francisco recently created entertainment zones, which allow to-go beverages during designated events. San Francisco has opened several entertainment zones, often hosting free block parties to bring people to the neighborhood.
As of now, AB 342’s future is still uncertain. You can read the bill and see the latest status updates here.
