California Law Bans Alcohol Sales at Self-Checkout Aisles

California Governor Jerry Brown has signed a law banning alcohol sales at self-checkout aisles. Starting January 1, 2012, anyone who buys alcohol must pay a cashier, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, who authored the bill, said it will protect against minors obtaining alcohol illegally. The legislation was supported by law enforcement groups and Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Proponents of the bill cited a study conducted last year by the Center for Alcohol and Drug Studies at San Diego State University that concluded the growing number of self-checkout options at supermarkets is a potential source of alcohol for minors. Critics of the law said unions will use it to fight labor-saving technology.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a similar bill.