If you’re someone who enjoys an occasional cocktail, you’re probably familiar with California’s usual 2 a.m. last call. But soon, the familiar sound of Closing Time playing over the speakers may come a bit later — well, only at one exclusive spot in Inglewood.
On September 29, 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 3206 (AB 3206) into law — allowing select guests at the Intuit Dome, the future home of the Los Angeles Clippers, to sip drinks until 4 a.m. in a private VIP club within the arena.
Efforts to extend California’s last call statewide have consistently faced opposition. Supporters argue that longer service hours could benefit local economies, while critics warn of increased risks related to drunk driving and public safety. While this law provides a narrow extension of service hours for dues-paying members, it isn’t without concern. In his signing statement, Newsom acknowledged the potential risks.
“This bill seeks to provide a narrow extension of alcohol service hours in a specific setting. While this bill creates a very limited pilot that sunsets on January 1, 2030, I remain cognizant of the potential risks to public safety posed by extending service hours for alcoholic beverage service, which could lead to an increase in driving under the influence-related crashes and fatalities,” said Newsom in the statement.
To mitigate these risks, the governor directed the California Highway Patrol to work with local law enforcement to monitor DUI incidents in the area. The data collected will help determine if extended alcohol service hours should be considered more broadly. The new law applies to a small section of the Intuit Dome, with a capacity of up to 100 people, although details regarding membership fees and access remain unclear.
The Inglewood City Council approved the Intuit Dome’s extended hours, viewing it as a boost to the city’s growing entertainment and tourism sector.