The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has officially published the 2025 Edition of the ABC Act, incorporating all legislative updates and regulatory changes enacted during the 2024 session. This latest edition reflects amendments, additions, and repealed sections that impact businesses, license holders, and consumers involved in the sale and regulation of alcohol in California.

California liquor laws: A comprehensive guide to the ABC Act (2025)

The California ABC Act 2025 Edition features key updates to alcohol licensing, sales regulations, and compliance requirements. This guide helps businesses and legal professionals navigate the new laws.

CaliforniaToday.comPat Sharyon

The ABC Act serves as the legal foundation for the regulation of alcoholic beverages in the state, covering licensing, enforcement, taxation, and compliance requirements. Whether you're a business owner, a legal professional, or a consumer interested in California's alcohol laws, the 2025 ABC Act provides crucial updates on the evolving regulatory landscape.

Key Updates in the 2025 ABC Act

This year’s edition of the ABC Act includes amendments across multiple sections, reflecting new laws and policy shifts in the alcohol industry. Some of the most notable changes include:

• Revised Licensing Regulations: Updates to sections governing license applications, transfers, and fees.
• Expanded Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Training Requirements: Modifications to ensure compliance with the 2017 RBS Training Program Act.
• Changes to Restrictions on Alcohol Sales and Advertising: Several provisions have been amended to clarify what businesses can and cannot do.
• New Sections Introduced: Additional provisions address licensing for music venues, updates to conditional licenses, and modifications to hours of alcohol sales and delivery.
• Business & Professions Code Amendments: Key updates in licensing, penalties, and enforcement actions under Division 9 of the California Business & Professions Code.

For a full breakdown of all changes, refer to the Table of Sections Affected in the new edition.

What’s Included in the 2025 ABC Act?

The California ABC Act 2025 Edition is a comprehensive legal document that includes:

• Full text of all California laws governing alcoholic beverages
• Business & Professions Code regulations
• California Code of Regulations (Title 4, Division 1) covering enforcement and licensing procedures
• Newly enacted statutes and amendments from the 2024 legislative session
• A Table of Sections Affected, which details all changes to previous laws

This publication is a vital resource for those who work in alcohol regulation, licensing, hospitality, and law enforcement, as well as for business owners operating bars, restaurants, and liquor stores.

How to Access the Full 2025 ABC Act

The 2025 Edition of the ABC Act is available for public access in multiple formats:

• California ABC Website: The full text can be read or downloaded at ABC’s official website.
• LexisNexis Online Bookstore: The official publisher, LexisNexis, offers both print and digital editions.
• Government Offices: Copies may be available at public libraries, legal research centers, and select government offices.

For additional assistance or inquiries regarding specific provisions, businesses and individuals can contact the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control:

• Address: 3927 Lennane Drive, Suite 100, Sacramento, CA 95834
• Phone: (916) 419-2500
• Email: headquarters@abc.ca.gov

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Conclusion

The release of the ABC Act 2025 Edition marks an important update in California's alcohol laws. With changes affecting licensing, business operations, and enforcement, it's essential for industry professionals to stay informed.