Steve Hilton, the Republican candidate in California’s gubernatorial race, is unveiling an ambitious initiative aimed at revitalizing the state’s nightlife economy. Under his proposal, a new “Office of Fun and Freedom” would be established within the governor’s office, tasked with dismantling bureaucratic barriers that hinder live entertainment and community events.
Reviving the Spirit of California
Hilton’s vision is to restore what he describes as the “rebel spirit of California.” Aiming to make the Golden State the most enjoyable place in America, he emphasizes its picturesque weather, diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich community life. However, he asserts that current politicians and bureaucrats are stifling the fun. “California should be the most fun place in America… Yet the killjoy politicians and bureaucrats who run state and local government too often seem determined to stop anyone from enjoying it,” reads a policy document obtained by The Hollywood Reporter.
Streamlining the Permit Process
In his first 100 days in office, Hilton plans to audit regulations surrounding community events, live entertainment, nightlife, food pop-ups, and public spaces. He envisions a single online hub for state event permits that would feature deadlines for various applications. Responses that are delayed would automatically result in approval, effectively reducing unnecessary red tape.
Community Empowerment
Hilton’s strategy extends to empowering local communities by enabling them to approve alcohol sales at select venues until as late as 4 a.m. This would be a significant change from the current state law that prohibits alcohol sales between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. Additionally, he proposes allowing bars and restaurants to offer complimentary drinks and two-for-one deals, along with creating a streamlined permit for small venues hosting live bands and dancing.
Enhancing Outdoor Enjoyment
Further enhancements to the state’s recreational offerings include allowing dogs at more state beaches and increasing the availability of fire rings and cooking areas. Hilton aims to cut red tape for block parties, food pop-up events, and weddings. According to his policy document, the Office of Fun and Freedom will be evaluated based on “how many pointless permits it eliminates, how much time and money it saves, and how many venues and events it helps open.”
A Comprehensive Entertainment Policy
This push for fun comes alongside Hilton’s broader initiative to establish a film and television tax credit program, which could offer incentives as high as 60 percent for certain productions. This proposal mirrors efforts by L.A. mayoral candidates and would require legislative support, similar to the $750 million tax credit championed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2025.
Opposing Views in the Race
Hilton’s opponent in the race, Xavier Becerra, the former California Attorney General and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, has not proposed uncapping the tax credit or establishing specific incentive percentages. Instead, he aims to tailor the tax credit to address the areas where Hollywood is losing work, alongside pledges for data transparency from streaming services regarding their projects. While Becerra has not announced plans to reinvigorate the entertainment scene, observers are closely monitoring his campaign.
