California, August 19, 2025
News Summary
DoorDash supports California’s AB 671, which aims to simplify the restaurant permitting process, enabling quicker openings for new establishments. With California facing challenges in opening restaurants due to lengthy permit processes, this bill seeks to expedite applications, reinforcing local economies and promoting job growth in the vital restaurant industry. Authored by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, the legislation mandates quick responses from health and building departments, potentially speeding up both new openings and operational improvements for existing businesses.
California
DoorDash has thrown its support behind California’s proposed legislation, AB 671, which aims to simplify the current cumbersome restaurant permitting process. The initiative is designed to foster the growth of local eateries, which are crucial to the state’s economy by employing approximately one in ten workers and generating over $220 billion annually in sales.
The pressure is mounting for legislative change as California currently holds the distinction of being the hardest state to navigate when it comes to opening a restaurant. Since 2019, restaurant employment has decreased, largely attributed to the burdensome regulations that slow down the establishment of new dining options. Long permitting processes drive up operational costs and stall job creation within the restaurant industry.
Overview of AB 671
Introduced by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, AB 671 seeks to rectify these issues by mandating that local health and building departments respond to restaurant permit applications within specific timeframes. Under the proposed legislation, restaurants could expect to open within 20 business days of submitting an application, while departments would be required to address permit deficiencies within 10 business days if an application is denied.
Impact on Business Operations
This initiative aims not only to expedite the process for new restaurant openings but also to facilitate operational improvements for existing establishments without the significant delays currently experienced. By reducing both downtime and compliance costs, AB 671 seeks to ensure that small businesses can thrive and maintain their workforce.
DoorDash has expressed its commitment to uplifting local economies and promoting reforms that favor restaurant entrepreneurs. The company is actively rallying merchants across California to endorse AB 671 and collaborating with industry leaders to advocate for its passage in the legislature.
Supporting Small Businesses
Max Rettig, Vice President of Global Public Policy at DoorDash, emphasizes the need for common-sense reforms that will spur job creation and business growth in California’s vibrant restaurant scene. Local restaurant owner Nayomie Mendoza highlights the financial strain that existing permit delays impose, advocating for quicker processes so businesses can serve their customers more efficiently.
Conclusion
The legislative push through AB 671 represents a critical step toward making California a more appealing environment for new restaurant ventures. By easing the regulatory burdens that currently plague restaurant owners, this bill has the potential to reignite job creation and bolster the economy as a whole.
FAQs
What is AB 671?
AB 671 is a proposed legislation in California aimed at streamlining the restaurant permitting process to effectively shorten wait times and reduce operational costs for restaurants.
Why is preserving local restaurants important for California’s economy?
Local restaurants play a vital role in California’s economy; they employ one in ten workers and generate over $220 billion in revenue annually.
How long will it take to obtain a restaurant permit under AB 671?
Under AB 671, restaurant permits would ideally be processed within 20 business days.
What are the expected benefits of AB 671 for existing restaurants?
The bill will reduce delays in making operational improvements for existing restaurants, ensuring they can adapt and serve customers more effectively.
Key Features of AB 671
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Response Time for Permits | 20 business days for applications |
| Response Time for Denied Applications | 10 business days |
| Primary Goal | Streamline restaurant opening process |
| Support from DoorDash | Advocacy for local restaurants and reforms |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER
LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, 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 LA Auto Show, Hollywood Film Awards, and the Los Angeles Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology that power the local economy such as Warner Bros. and SpaceX. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
