Labor
Mask or no mask at work? California regulators pass controversial COVID rules
The Mercury News 6/4
Californians will have to remain masked at work possibly through early next year — at least if they have unvaccinated colleagues, state regulators decided Thursday during a marathon meeting that elicited hours of heated debate.
Three counties enter restaurant tipping challenge
ABC10 – Albany, NY
Discover Albany, Discover Saratoga, and Discover Schenectady have come together to create a new challenge for Capital Region residents to support locally owned restaurants. The first ever Tri-County Tip-Off Challenge will run from June 1 to June 30. At the end of the month, the county with the most tips wins.
Food Industry Policy
California extends outdoor dining, to-go drinks through Dec. 31
Capital Public Radio 6/4
Now, even as the state prepares to lift all COVID-19 restrictions on June 15, some pandemic changes such as outdoor dining and to-go drinks will likely remain in many California cities — and many small business owners are embracing the proposed extensions.
Governor Newsom Launches California Restaurant Comeback to Support Restaurants and Bars as State Fully and Safely Reopens
Office of Governor Gavin Newsom 6/3
As California’s economy comes roaring back and the state prepares to fully reopen this month, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced action to ensure that restaurants, bars, breweries and wineries continue to benefit from pandemic regulatory relief – including expanded outdoor dining and the sale of to-go alcoholic drinks – to support the recovery of businesses and protect public health.
On the Side
Some SF Restaurants Adding Dining Surcharge With COVID-19 Restrictions Ending Soon
NBC San Diego 6/3
With California restaurants just 12 days away from no more COVID-19 restrictions and full indoor dining, restaurants such as Che Fico on Divisadero are implementing a “dining in charge.” It replaces the San Francisco mandate fees, and if you get food to go, there is no extra charge.
Berkeley deli closes to avoid charging crazy prices to keep up with meat costs
KRON4 6/3
Augie’s Montreal Deli was able to stay open during the pandemic, but now they are forced to shutter for the summer to avoid charging ridiculous prices. The owner says there has been a major increase in meat and dairy prices. To keep up, Lex Gopnik-Lewinski said he would have had to charge people $30 for a sandwich if they stayed open.
