On October 6, Governor Jerry Brown took a break from the usual tomfoolery of state politics to focus on the issues that matter. That's right, he signed a bill that legalized “beer bikes” on California streets.
For the uninitiated, beer bikes are pretty ridiculous looking vehicles, operated mostly by drunk tourists and residents alike who sit across from each other at a table. The vehicles hold up to 15 passengers who work together to pedal while a separate driver steers. It was invented by a company in the Netherlands, but has picked up popularity in Sacramento and San Diego.
These beer bikes came into fashion a few years ago, but there was a lot of grey area surrounding whether or not the bikes should be allowed on the road. In 2012, there were three beer bicycle companies in Los Angeles County, but the market has since dwindled to just one. But with the new bill, perhaps there will be more of a market.
An analysis of the bill breaks it down like this: 1. The new bill “expands the definition of pedicab to include a device which is primarily pedal-powered, has a seating capacity of not more than 15 passengers, and cannot travel faster than 15 miles per hour.” There are some additional safety and licensing requirements in there as well. 2. The bill “provides that if a city allows alcohol to be consumed on board, the operator shall also provide an on-board adult safety monitor"—think DD.
Governor Brown actually signed the bill on one of the bikes, and the pictures and videos are pretty hilarious. You go, Jerry.
Today @JerryBrownGov signed @DrPanMDs #SB530 into law while riding on @OTCbike! #LetTheTapsFlow pic.twitter.com/giFLS73Op0
— Alex Gibbs (@AlexGybz) October 5, 2015
Spotted @ the (mobile) office: @JerryBrownGov @annebgust @NancyEMcFadden @DrPanMD go for a spin after #SB530 action pic.twitter.com/CE9UOaIYaP
— Gov. Brown Press Ofc (@GovPressOffice) October 5, 2015