California, August 19, 2025
News Summary
California’s Assembly Bill 671 aims to simplify the permitting process for new and existing restaurants, backed by DoorDash. The legislation seeks to address the challenges posed by lengthy permit approvals that have negatively impacted the state’s restaurant industry, which employs a significant portion of the workforce. By allowing restaurants to open within 20 business days of application, AB 671 aims to revitalize the industry and promote job creation while providing the necessary support for small businesses.
California Legislation Aimed at Easing Restaurant Opening Procedures
In a bid to revitalize the state’s restaurant industry, DoorDash is backing California’s new legislation, Assembly Bill 671 (AB 671), which seeks to simplify the permitting process for new and existing restaurants. This initiative is crucial as local restaurants play a vital role in California’s economy, employing approximately one in ten workers and generating over $220 billion in annual sales.
Since 2019, California has seen a decline in restaurant employment, with the state now believed to be the most challenging in which to open a restaurant due to overbearing regulations. These lengthy permitting processes not only increase operational costs but also hinder job creation within the industry. AB 671 addresses these critical issues by streamlining the permitting process and allowing restaurants to commence operations within 20 business days following their application.
Details of AB 671
Introduced by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, the bill is designed to provide significant support to existing restaurants as well. It allows them to implement operational improvements efficiently, without enduring long permit wait times. The legislation imposes specific requirements on local health and building departments, dictating that they must respond to permit applications and rectify any deficiencies within set timelines—20 business days for permit approvals and 10 business days for responses to denied applications.
This legislative proposal aims to reduce downtime and compliance costs, which are crucial for enabling small businesses to thrive and retain their employees. DoorDash has expressed its commitment to uplifting local economies and advocating for sensible reforms that benefit restaurant entrepreneurs.
Industry Support and Advocacy
Max Rettig, Vice President of Global Public Policy at DoorDash, has underscored the need for commonsense reforms that can facilitate job and business growth. Additionally, Nayomie Mendoza, a restaurant owner, has highlighted the financial toll taken by permit delays and the necessity for faster access to permits to allow restaurants to serve their customers more efficiently.
DoorDash is mobilizing merchants across California to show their support for AB 671 and is collaborating with industry leaders to push for the bill’s passage. By easing restrictions on opening and operating restaurants, AB 671 aims to ensure that California remains an attractive place for restaurant businesses.
Conclusion
As California grapples with the economic aftermath of restrictions and challenges posed by the pandemic, legislation such as AB 671 could prove to be a lifeline for the restaurant industry. Streamlining the permitting process may not only stimulate job creation but also position the state as a hospitable environment for new dining ventures.
FAQ Section
What is Assembly Bill 671 (AB 671) in California?
AB 671 is a proposed legislation aimed at streamlining the process of obtaining restaurant permits in California, allowing restaurants to open within 20 business days after application, thus simplifying operations and reducing costs.
Why is AB 671 necessary for California’s restaurant industry?
AB 671 is essential because California is currently experiencing a decline in restaurant employment due to a cumbersome permitting process, making it extremely difficult for new restaurants to open and existing ones to improve operations.
What impact does DoorDash have on this legislation?
DoorDash is advocating for AB 671 by rallying support among local merchants and partnering with industry leaders, emphasizing the need for reforms to promote job and business growth in the restaurant sector.
Key Features of AB 671
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Streamlined Process | Restaurants can open within 20 business days after application. |
| Operational Improvements | Existing restaurants can make improvements without prolonged permit delays. |
| Response Timelines | Local departments must respond to applications within 20 business days and address deficiencies within 10 business days. |
| Support for Small Businesses | Reduces compliance costs and downtime, fostering small business growth and job retention. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- DoorDash News: Smart Reforms to Help CA Restaurants
- Eater: New 2025 California Restaurant and Bar Laws Explained
- Nation’s Restaurant News: Restaurant Surcharges and California Junk Fee Law
- San Francisco Chronicle: California Bill on Permit Applications for Restaurants
- Allergic Living: Supporting California’s ADDE Act for Allergy Labels in Restaurants
- Wikipedia: Restaurant Industry
- Google Search: California restaurant legislation
- Google Scholar: California restaurant legislation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: California restaurant laws
- Google News: California restaurant news
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
