Locals question new law to OK tippling
As the dawn of 2017 ascends on the horizon a slate of 898 bills Gov. Jerry Brown has signed becomes law on Jan. 1 and one piece of legislation becoming increasingly known locally does not seem to have firm support.
Assembly Bill No. 1322 was authored by Assemblyman Tom Daly (D-69th).
The bill allows serving of beer or wine without a beverage license as part of a beauty salon or barber shop service if there is no extra charge for the beverages.
Yet the bill requires the license of the beauty salon or barber shop to be in good standing with the State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
Also, no more than 12 ounces of beer or six ounces of wine may be served to a client.
The beverages may only be provided during business hours and no later than 10 p.m.
And there will be no limit of a city or county to restrict or limit the consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Word of the new law for one local shop, Master Fade Barber N’ Beauty came by way of a client, recalled Lorena Verduzco, manager of Master Fade. “I honestly don’t like mixing business with pleasure,” said Verduzco. “That’s why there are bars, for their own purpose. Plus it’s an extra expense for us.”
Despite the law limiting quantity the ability to maintain professionalism could become a challenge, Verduzco pointed out.
The service would certainly draw some clients to the business but in a small way it also cuts into the prerogative of the establishments who typically offer alcohol beverages for sale.
“I’ve heard of one hair stylist that offered alcohol,” said Verduzco.
“It seemed to be a case of, OK you’re going to be here for a while so here’s a glass of wine. But they closed down.”
Verduzco added, that the Valley is very family oriented and that kind of service just might not be welcome here.
And what is more, her business cuts hair for all ages and a shop serving alcohol with children on the premises would not be entirely appropriate.
Inquiries to the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology as to potential conflicts with such as service in an atypical setting were not returned at press time.
Yet William Betley, a senior partner with Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo, a professional law corporation, noted with AB 1322, it would be incumbent upon the salon or barber shop owner to see clients adhered to state regulations as well as fulfilling their obligation for compliance.
Betley practices in all areas of employment law and has been a board member of the Inland Valleys Employer Advisory Council for 15 years, which he now chairs.
“I see it as a complementary service for customers,” said Betley.
“The competition is very keen and now barbers are experimenting. In a niche market, such as barbers for men only, it could be a nice perquisite, especially if you’re paying top dollar for a haircut.”