California, October 16, 2025
News Summary
In response to a reported decline in dining traffic, California has introduced two new measures – AB 592 and AB 671 – aimed at supporting the struggling restaurant industry. These legislative efforts are designed to help small businesses thrive by reducing regulatory burdens and enhancing outdoor dining options. With the restaurant sector being a critical component of California’s economy, these measures are seen as essential in addressing ongoing challenges and supporting recovery amidst economic shifts.
California has introduced two new measures to support its struggling restaurant industry in response to a reported decline in dining traffic. The announcement made at Joyce restaurant in downtown Los Angeles highlights the state’s ongoing commitment to alleviating challenges for small businesses amid rising costs and shifting federal policies.
These new measures are designed to lessen the regulatory burden on California’s small businesses, which represent a significant portion of the state’s economy. California is home to over 4.2 million small businesses, accounting for 99.9% of total enterprises in the state. Small businesses collectively employ nearly half of the private sector workforce, amounting to approximately 7 million people.
The restaurant sector is particularly vital to California’s economy, consisting of over 86,000 locations and serving as the largest private employer in the state, supporting an impressive 1.8 million jobs. Furthermore, this sector generates $220 billion in annual sales, making its health crucial for economic vitality.
Details of the New Measures
The first piece of legislation, known as AB 592, permits restaurants with open kitchens to utilize windows, folding doors, or non-fixed storefronts to create outdoor dining spaces. This initiative aims to make the most of California’s mild climate and promote a more inviting dining atmosphere.
The second measure, AB 671, establishes a voluntary fast-track permitting process specifically for small, independent restaurants looking to retrofit existing spaces. Under this new permitting process, licensed architects and engineers are now able to self-certify basic plans, streamlining the overall application process.
Positive Impact on Local Restaurants
These legislative efforts come at a critical time as data from OpenTable reveals a significant 5% drop in dining traffic in Los Angeles through August 2025. These measures aim to provide necessary support for restaurants while addressing ongoing obstacles facing neighborhood establishments.
Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) has noted that this new law seeks to confront the “endless hurdles” that neighborhood restaurants encounter while navigating economic difficulties. Similarly, Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) has highlighted the importance of enabling restaurateurs to “turn their ideas into reality” without compromising safety standards.
Background Context
Historically, California’s restaurant industry has been a cornerstone of the state’s employment landscape and economic activity. However, it has encountered unprecedented challenges in recent years due to various economic factors. As businesses strive to recuperate from these setbacks, state support through legislative measures like AB 592 and AB 671 reflects a growing recognition of the need to bolster this vital sector.
These initiatives represent a proactive approach to fostering resilience among California’s small businesses. By alleviating regulatory burdens and enhancing flexibility, the state aims to provide a framework that encourages the recovery and growth of its robust restaurant industry.
Conclusion
With the introduction of these new measures, California takes a significant step towards supporting its restaurant industry, a key player in the state’s economy. As the sector continues to adapt to changing circumstances, these legislative adjustments are poised to offer a path forward for both business owners and employees alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new measures introduced in California to support the restaurant industry?
California has introduced two new measures: AB 592 allows restaurants with open kitchens to utilize windows, folding doors, or non-fixed storefronts for outdoor dining. AB 671 establishes a voluntary fast-track permitting process for small, independent restaurants retrofitting existing spaces.
How do these measures affect small businesses?
The measures are aimed at reducing regulatory burdens on small businesses facing economic challenges, allowing them to create outdoor dining spaces and streamline the permitting process for renovations.
What is the significance of the restaurant sector in California?
The restaurant sector includes over 86,000 locations, making it the largest private employer in California, supporting 1.8 million jobs and generating $220 billion in sales annually.
What recent data highlights the need for these measures?
Data from OpenTable indicates a 5% drop in dining traffic in Los Angeles through August 2025, underscoring the economic challenges faced by the industry.
Key Features of California’s New Measures
| Measure | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| AB 592 | Allows restaurants with open kitchens to utilize windows, folding doors, or non-fixed storefronts for outdoor dining. | Enhance outdoor dining options capitalizing on California’s climate. |
| AB 671 | Establishes a voluntary fast-track permitting process for small independent restaurants retrofitting existing spaces. | Streamline the permitting process and reduce regulatory burdens. |
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Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, 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 the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
