SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A California bill introduced by state Sen. Bill Dodd aims to permit restaurants to levy service fees on patrons, potentially overturning part of a controversial state law set to render such charges illegal in a matter of weeks, reported the San Francisco Chronicle.

The Proposal

Senate Bill 1524, described as an urgency measure by Dodd, seeks to mandate transparent disclosure of any additional charges, such as automatic service fees, on menus or other displays. This move aims to address the confusion and disagreement surrounding current state law on restaurant fees.

Transparency in Pricing

The proposed legislation emphasizes the requirement for restaurants to prominently display any mandatory gratuity, service charge, or other fee on their menus. This ensures that customers are informed upfront about additional costs, preventing surprises when the bill arrives.

Broad Support

Co-authored by several lawmakers including Sen. Scott Wiener and supported by industry groups like the California Restaurant Association and labor union Unite Here, SB 1524 aims to provide clarity amidst the implementation of Senate Bill 478, the state’s new law against junk fees.

Clarifying Regulations

Dodd’s bill seeks to exempt restaurants from the provisions of SB 478, clarifying that the ban on hidden fees does not extend to food or beverage establishments. This exemption ensures that businesses can continue to operate transparently while avoiding the unintended consequences of the new law.

Conclusion: Ensuring Transparency in Dining

As California lawmakers navigate the complexities of regulating restaurant fees, SB 1524 emerges as a potential solution to foster transparency and fairness in the dining industry. Stay informed about this developing legislation and more by downloading The Local News App for updates.

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