With SB530 passing the California Senate, beer bikes are a step closer toward becoming regular fixtures on state streets.
Beer bikes are bike buses that can accommodate up to 15 people pedaling at slow speeds. Despite its name, beer bikes don't actually offer beer on board, but they can, however, be found in places where alcohol is commonly served. They stop at these spots during riding tours.
The bill may have approved (even encouraged) the presence of beer bikes on roads, but it did not specifically allow the mode of transportation to serve beer. It will be up to the cities to decide whether or not they will be allowing alcohol aboard beer buses in their jurisdictions.
The good thing about SB530 is that it has called for regulations on beer bikes, enforcing safety measures for all those riding beer bikes to follow. Not only will this ensure the safety of those on tours, but it will also help guarantee everyone else on the road with them will be able to reach their destinations in one piece.
After passing the senate, the bill will now move on to the California State Assembly for further deliberations.
The prevalence of beer bikes has been growing at a relatively slow pace, but the bike bus has been popping up around San Diego and Sacramento as tour vehicles. SB530 has not clearly defined beer bikes though, so there are concerns that legal uncertainties might arise from the new bill.
The beer bike is not unique to California, though. In Arizona, for instance, a party bike service offers tours around the state. Wine and beer are allowed on board, but all alcoholic beverages must stay inside the vehicle at all times so as not to violate public consumption laws. As their name dictates, party bikes are for parties. Be it a pub crawl or a bachelorette party, the service imbibes a "party on wheels" vibe, complete with LED lights and sound systems.
Whether California's beer bikes take a cue from Arizona's party bikes or not is yet to be seen. For now, the California State Assembly is given the duty of assessing the bill and its merits. If changes are made to the original draft of SB530, the bill will be sent back to the State Senate for voting. If the Assembly deems it ready for the governor's signature, then it will be sent to Governor Jerry Brown for signing.
Photo: Lindsey Gira | Flickr
