California’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations are now in effect and directly impact virtually every industry, including restaurants. Courtney summarizes the objectives of the regulation, how to determine if your business qualifies as a “producer,” the next key compliance deadline, and the CRA’s ongoing efforts to address costly and conflicting regulations affecting neighborhood restaurants statewide.

RESOURCE:

Producer Guidance from CalRecycle: https://calrecycle.ca.gov/packaging/packaging-epr/producerguidance/?_hsmi=28411720

DISCLAIMER: Stock media used in this video are sourced from Canva and other royalty-free sites. Audio: Indie Times_Positive Dvir Zilverstone

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In this episode of News You Need to Know, Courtney breaks down three bills aimed at reducing delays and easing operations for restaurants:

• AB 2418: Sets firm timelines for permit reviews and inspections
• AB 1915: Allows self-certification for routine equipment replacements
• AB 1740: Sets new precedent for regulatory flexibility in “Coastal Zones”

These reforms are part of the CRA’s continued advocacy to streamline processes, reduce costs, and support restaurant operators statewide. Stay informed and stay ahead.

DISCLAIMER: Stock media used in this clip are sourced from Canva and other royalty-free sites. Audio: Indie Times_Positive Dvir Zilverstone

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Legislature is active, and restaurants are a primary focus. In this edition of News You Need to Know, Courtney reviews key legislative updates affecting operators, including alcohol-to-go, new menu labeling requirements, misplaced liability for neighborhood restaurants, and efforts to combat against reservation piracy. Watch to learn what is advancing, what is at risk, and how these changes may impact your restaurant.

DISCLAIMER: Stock media used in this clip are sourced from Canva and other royalty-free sites. Audio: Indie Times_Positive Dvir Zilverstone

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In part two of this discussion, we explore the critical role of online reviews, digital presence, and operational strategies in driving restaurant revenue and reputation. Experts Lisa Landsman from Google and Joel Seidenberg from Locl share practical tips on managing reviews, engaging with customers, and optimizing digital profiles to stay competitive.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Digital Presence

03:54 Understanding the Weight of Reviews

06:36 Effective Review Management Strategies

09:55 Responding to Reviews: Best Practices

12:36 Leveraging Feedback for Improvement

15:51 Practical Steps for Restaurant Owners

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of News You Need to Know, Courtney explains Assembly Bill 1245 and what it means for California restaurants. This proposed law aims to stop third-party platforms from selling unauthorized reservations, which is a growing problem that can cause lost revenue, no-shows, and unhappy diners. Find out how this bill might affect your business and how the California Restaurant Association is working to protect restaurant owners across the state.

DISCLAIMER: Stock media used in this clip are sourced from Canva and other royalty-free sites. Audio: Indie Times_Positive Dvir Zilverstone

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode explores how restaurants can leverage digital presence, especially Google Business Profiles, to attract more diners and improve visibility. Experts Lisa Landsman from Google and Joel Seidenberg from Locl share practical tips on optimizing online listings, managing reviews, and understanding search intent.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Online Presence for Restaurants

13:04 Understanding Google Business Profile

18:53 Common Mistakes and Best Practices

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

News You Need to Know is welcoming a new host to the team. Join Courtney Carlmark as she shares the latest updates impacting California’s restaurant industry. In this episode, Courtney highlights our recent Capitol Hill meetings, where restaurant advocates spoke directly with policymakers about key operator issues. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped amplify the restaurant industry’s voice. Your engagement helps shape policies that affect restaurants in California and across the country.

Stay tuned for the latest industry updates, advocacy efforts, and resources from the California Restaurant Association. Subscribe to stay informed: https://www.calrest.org/post/subscribe

Get these & all of our episodes in video form at https://www.youtube.com/@CaRestAssoc

DISCLAIMER: Stock media used in this video are sourced from Canva and other royalty-free sites. Audio: Indie Times_Positive Dvir Zilverstone

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Ask CRA, Laura Pierson-Scheinberg and Kimya St. Pierre of Jackson Lewis P.C. discuss political expression in the workplace. Learn how federal and California laws impact employee speech, social media posts, and employer response.

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