Local Insights. Statewide Impact. Served in 12 Regions.
Stay connected to what matters most where you do business. Policy & Plates with the CRA delivers curated, region-specific updates from California’s 12 distinct regions, giving you a localized view of the issues shaping the restaurant industry.
STATEWIDE WATCH ITEMS SB 68 Allergen Disclosure Requirements Took Effect July 1
California’s SB 68 allergen disclosure requirements took effect July 1, 2026. The California Department of Public Health says covered food facilities that are subject to federal menu labeling rules (20+ restaurants serving similar food under the same name) must provide written notification of the presence of major food allergens in each menu item.
Why it matters: Chain restaurant operators and covered food facilities may need to review menu systems, staff procedures, and alternate access methods for customers who cannot use digital formats.
CalRecycle continues issuing guidance under California’s packaging producer responsibility framework for single-use packaging and plastic food service ware. The agency published source-reduction reporting guidance on July 17 and continues to maintain producer guidance for SB 54 implementation. Recently, the Producer Responsibility Organization in Charge of Administering SB 54 also released an alarming program plan that outlines implementation of the state law. The CRA is reviewing the 300+ page report in order to provide the needed feedback and pushback on this proposal prior to August 13th.
Why it matters: Restaurant suppliers, franchisors, and packaged-food operators may need to monitor packaging, service ware, producer-responsibility reporting, and procurement impacts as CalRecycle implementation continues.
CRA LEGAL PARTNER CONTENT Backpacks, bell schedules, and leave requests
"As children head back to school, California employees may need time away from work for school activities, childcare emergencies, disciplinary meetings, or to care for a sick child. Employers should keep the following California leave protections in mind for the 2026–2027 school year."
CRA LEGAL PARTNER CONTENT California employer guide to latest update on proposed PAGA regulations: 7 key points on the LWDA’s new modifications
CA officials have announced major changes to a proposed rule clarifying administrative requirements under California’s Private Attorneys General Act of 2004 (PAGA). The initial rule offered both benefits and drawbacks for employers. The latest modifications from the California Labor Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), announced August 3, address some concerns but create new ones. A short public comment period ends August 18. This update summarizes the key points for employers.
Help keep your business running smoothly and sustainably. Take advantage of energy-efficient natural gas equipment rebates from SoCalGas, including up to $3,000 on qualifying ovens and a variety of foodservice equipment
CRA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Built from the restaurant floor up
From waitress to founder, Danielle Casilio turned a challenge she saw in restaurants into a solution. Discover how years on the restaurant floor inspired her to build Yelli and why some of the best industry tools come from people who know the work firsthand.
Did you know? Only one California city made the GoDaddy Small Business Research Lab’s list of the most entrepreneurial cities in the nation. Fresno came in sixth place on the top 10 list.
Los Angeles Chapter
Looking for a way to get more involved with local restaurant leaders? Consider joining the Los Angeles chapter of the CRA Board of Directors. Please contact Kathie Griley at kgriley@calrest.org if you would like more information.
Looking to get more exposure in this area of the state? Consider sponsoring an upcoming event. Sponsorships start at $250! Please contact Kathie Griley at kgriley@calrest.org for more information.
Join the Los Angeles Chapter on Social Media
If you’re a restaurateur in one of these regions, follow us and drop a like!
Orange County Chapter
Join Chef Masters in support of Abound Food Care
SEP 27, 2026 ● 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Festival of the Pageant of the Masters Laguna Beach
Looking for a way to get more involved with local restaurant leaders? Consider joining the Orange County chapter of the CRA Board of Directors. Please contact Kathie Griley at kgriley@calrest.org if you would like more information.
Looking to get more exposure in this area of the state? Consider sponsoring an upcoming event. Sponsorships start at $250! Please contact Kathie Griley at kgriley@calrest.org for more information.
Join the Orange County Chapter on Social Media
If you’re a restaurateur in one of these regions, follow us and drop a like!
Looking for a way to get more involved with local restaurant leaders? Consider joining the Sacramento chapter of the CRA Board of Directors. Please contact Kathie Griley at kgriley@calrest.org if you would like more information.
Join the Sacramento Chapter on Social Media
If you’re a restaurateur in one of these regions, follow us and drop a like!
San Diego Chapter
Membership Mixer at The Brigantine La Mesa AUG 27, 2026 ● 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
While all information released by the California Restaurant Association (CRA) is intended to provide accurate information on the subject covered, the CRA does not provide legal advice and any information provided by the CRA shall not constitute legal advice. You are encouraged to consult your attorney, accountant, or other appropriate professional, as needed.
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