California’s SB 1053 plastic bag ban is causing confusion in the restaurant industry but does it apply to restaurants?

In this episode of Ask CRA on the Confidential Bulletin, Jackie Gutierrez talks with Alden Parker of Fisher Phillips to break down:

• Which businesses are covered under SB 1053

• Why most traditional restaurants may be exempt

• The “gray areas” operators need to watch for

• How hybrid concepts, grocery locations, and gas station restaurants could be impacted

• Why local city ordinances may still apply even if the state law doesn’t

If you operate in California, this is an important compliance conversation to watch.

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In this episode of CRA News You Need to Know, Courtney shares an update on the SB 343 lawsuit and the recent court hearing on our request for a preliminary injunction. SB 343 would limit when packaging and products can be labeled as "recyclable" in California, even if they are in fact recyclable. The lawsuit challenges the law, arguing that it restricts businesses from providing truthful information to consumers. Learn more about the legal challenge and how SB 343 undermines recycling efforts and limits free speech, and what operators should be watching as the case moves forward.

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.

In this episode of Ask CRA on the Confidential Bulletin, Jackie Gutierrez of the California Restaurant Association is joined by legal experts Bruno Katz and John Guarino from Wilson Elser to break down one of the most critical risk areas facing restaurants today: harassment and discrimination claims in the workplace.

They share practical guidance on how claims develop, why documentation is essential, how to respond to complaints, and what employers often get wrong when managing sensitive workplace issues. The conversation covers California’s protected categories, retaliation risks, training requirements, and how to build stronger policies to prevent costly legal exposure.

Whether you’re an operator, manager, or HR lead, this episode offers steps to protect your team, culture, and business.

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