This week, Governor Jerry Brown signed SB 778 (Padilla) into law. Alcoholic beverage manufacturers in California may now conduct consumer contests and conduct or sponsor consumer sweepstakes after January 1, 2013 when the law goes into effect.

 Most states in the country already allow similar types of activities.

 The Alcoholic Beverage Control Act prohibits any licensee from giving any premium, gift, or free goods in connection with the sale or distribution of any alcoholic beverage, except as provided.

 This bill would permit an authorized licensee, as defined, to conduct a consumer contest and conduct or sponsor consumer sweepstakes, as defined, offering the chance to win prizes, if specified conditions are met.

 A full version of the bill can be found here.