Labor
As a Black owner of a McDonald’s business, my big fear is California politicians
The Sacramento Bee 7/19
Owning a local franchised restaurant completely changed my trajectory and gave me the opportunity to start building stability, security and generational opportunity for my family. That’s why I am fiercely opposed to Assembly Bill 1228.
State Wage-Theft Investigators Say Staffing Crisis Is Hurting the Agency
KQED 7/18
About 1 in 3 positions at the California Labor Commissioner’s Office, the agency tasked with investigating wage theft and other labor law violations, remain unfilled. The vacancy “crisis” is leading to burnout, low morale and the hemorrhaging of staffers, according to a letter by dozens of department employees obtained by KQED.
Food Industry Policy
Taco Bell and Taco John’s settle trademark dispute. ‘Taco Tuesday’ is now free for everyone to use
Los Angeles Times 7/18
The restaurant chain Taco John’s surrendered its “Taco Tuesday” trademark on Tuesday, appropriately enough, ending a battle between the company and its fast-food rival Taco Bell, which sought to free the famous phrase from the bonds of patent law.
City of SLO pauses all-electric building requirement — for now
KSBY 6, 7/18
The City of San Luis Obispo on Tuesday announced a pause on its all-electric ordinance for new buildings while a court case is decided, temporarily bringing to a halt the city’s plan to reach carbon neutrality by 2035 by banning the use of natural gas.
On the Side
Michelin just released its 2023 starred restaurants in California — with a new star in L.A.
Los Angeles Times 7/18
Michelin, which publishes one of the most respected dining guides in the world, has released its 2023 list of the top restaurants in California, including those earning its coveted star ratings. Six restaurants in the state have been awarded their first stars, including two in Southern California, one of them in Long Beach. Last year, eight L.A. restaurants newly earned at least one star.
Taco Bell wants your input on its next hot sauce packets
The Orange County Register 7/18
Taco Bell is planning what it calls a full redesign of its hot sauce packets for 2024, and is using its app to get its rewards members in on the act.
