Los Angeles, October 16, 2025
News Summary
California has announced two new measures to aid its struggling restaurant industry. The initiatives aim to reduce regulatory hurdles and promote outdoor dining. The first measure, AB 592, allows open kitchens to utilize outdoor spaces while the second, AB 671, establishes a fast-track permitting process for small restaurants. These efforts reflect the state’s commitment to support small businesses amid economic challenges and declining dining traffic, as 4.2 million small businesses generate significant employment in the state.
California has introduced two new measures to support its struggling restaurant industry. The announcement was made at Joyce restaurant in downtown Los Angeles, aiming to reduce regulatory burdens on small businesses that are facing significant economic challenges, including rising costs and shifting federal policies.
California is home to over 4.2 million small businesses, accounting for 99.9% of total enterprises in the state. These small businesses employ nearly half of the private sector workforce, approximately 7 million people. The restaurant sector, which includes over 86,000 locations, is the largest private employer in California, supporting 1.8 million jobs and generating $220 billion in sales annually.
The first measure, AB 592, allows restaurants with open kitchens to utilize windows, folding doors, or non-fixed storefronts for outdoor dining, all while capitalizing on the state’s mild climate. This measure is designed to help restaurants adapt to changes in consumer dining preferences and make better use of their physical spaces.
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 can self-certify basic plans, potentially speeding up the renovation process for these establishments.
Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) indicated that the law addresses numerous “endless hurdles” faced by neighborhood restaurants amidst ongoing economic difficulty. Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) stressed the importance of providing support to restaurateurs, enabling them to “turn their ideas into reality” without compromising safety standards.
Data from OpenTable indicates a 5% drop in dining traffic in Los Angeles through August 2025, highlighting the urgent need for measures that can assist the restaurant sector during this challenging time. The new initiatives aim to address the pressing needs of restaurants that are struggling to remain afloat amid uncertain economic conditions.
Overall, these measures reflect California’s commitment to empowering small businesses, fostering job creation, and supporting the restaurant industry during a critical period.
FAQ
What are the new measures introduced by 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, while AB 671 establishes a voluntary fast-track permitting process for small, independent restaurants retrofitting existing spaces.
How many small businesses are there in California?
California is home to over 4.2 million small businesses, which account for 99.9% of total enterprises in the state.
What is the employment impact of the restaurant sector in California?
The restaurant sector in California supports approximately 1.8 million jobs and is the largest private employer in the state.
What percentage of dining traffic in Los Angeles has dropped?
Data from OpenTable indicates a 5% drop in dining traffic in Los Angeles through August 2025.
Chart: Key Features of California’s New Measures for Restaurants
| Measure | Description | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| AB 592 | Allows restaurants with open kitchens to use windows, folding doors, or non-fixed storefronts for outdoor dining | To enhance outdoor dining options and adapt to changing consumer preferences |
| AB 671 | Establishes a voluntary fast-track permitting process for small, independent restaurants | To streamline renovations and reduce regulatory burdens |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Palisades News: New California Laws for Restaurants
- Los Angeles Times: Minimum Wage for Tourism Workers
- CN Traveller: Where Chefs Eat in Los Angeles
- KTLA: Preparedness Measures for Windstorm
- Los Angeles Times: Dueling Ballot Measures on Wages
- Wikipedia: Restaurant
- Google Search: California small business support
- Google Scholar: California restaurant industry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Small Business
- Google News: California restaurant laws
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles 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 Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
