Unfortunately, the State of California does not appreciate the military. Camis give the distinction of being a warfighter. The American public and those who have not served however can wear any thing that looks military.
Are you saying this is due to the State of California? I thought the decision was made by the Marines.
You should know better. The Peoples Republik in SF may not, but for the most part, Californians respect and admire the military.
As for the uniform policy, the BDU’s are considered a Utility uniform and not for general wear off base. The AF has the same rules in allowing convenience stops off base.
As other posters have said, after a while, folks tend to take advantage of the allowance and start looking like S***. Then the commanders have to rein everyone back in.
This regulation has NOTHING to do with California.
SZ