CA SB778

Permits authorized alcoholic beverage licensees (winegrowers, beer/distilled spirits manufacturers and importers, etc.) to conduct consumer contests and sweepstakes offering prizes, subject to specified conditions.

Prohibits entry via purchase of alcoholic beverages, requires alternative entry methods, and restricts contests/sweepstakes to persons 21 years or older; prohibits awarding alcoholic beverages or items redeemable for alcohol as prizes.

Limits contest and sweepstakes advertising to minimum of three unaffiliated retail licensees and prohibits conditioning sign placement on product placement, purchase, or removal within licensed premises.

Bars retail licensees from serving as agents to collect entries or award prizes (except deposit box collection for sweepstakes), and prohibits licensees not authorized to conduct contests/sweepstakes from underwriting or contributing to their costs.

Authorizes department to prohibit violating licensees from offering contests or sweepstakes to California residents for 12 months; removes monetary limitations on contest and sweepstakes prizes.