CA AB509

Amends Business and Professions Code Section 25660 to expand legal protections for alcohol licensees who sell to minors using fake IDs

Use of active age verification software or devices (scanning magnetic strips or barcodes) that fails to detect a false ID can now be used as evidence in the licensee's defense during criminal prosecution or license suspension/revocation proceedings

The defense applies only when the ID qualifies as bona fide evidence (government-issued with name, date of birth, description, and photo), was physically inspected, appears legitimate, and matches the customer's physical appearance

Existing law already allows defenses based on reliance on bona fide evidence or biometric verification systems; this bill adds a third category specifically for electronic age verification technology

Approved by the Governor on October 3, 2025