We're in mobilization mode again. This time, the issue affects small businesses in the pandemic-crushed food-service industry, and anybody who benefits from the services these businesses provide. We're cluing you in because it's an issue with mega-consequences overlooked by most media narratives. If it moves forward, it could set financially unsustainable precedent that's especially harmful to small enterprise owners. The broader implications and trickle-down effects impact YOU.
The LA County Board of Supervisors is gearing up to adopt an ordinance next Tuesday, April 5th that will effectively do the following throughout unincorporated LA County:
There's a reason expanded polystyrene foam and plastic food containers are the main products of choice for small businesses, hospitals, nursing homes, street vendors, and others. They're the best option, across the board, for maintaining freshness and keeping food safe to eat, while providing top-notch insulation at an affordable price. Alternative packaging materials that provide similar benefits are often 2-3 times more expensive.
Removing single-use plastics for in-service dining also fails to consider land use limitations for many small businesses. Most restaurants lease the space they operate in and do not have on-site dishwashers to accommodate reusable utensils. Washing by hand increases labor costs and doesn't seem prudent as Gov. Gavin Newsom orders even tighter water conservation rules.
Restaurants, especially, have historically low profit margins right now and are still struggling to recoup pandemic-era losses. Now is not the time to add regulations that hurt their bottom line, stall their recovery, and do little to help us reach our environmental goals.
1. Send an advocacy email with just one click to the LA County Board of Supervisors:
2. Make your voice heard at Tuesday's meeting:
WHEN: Tuesday, April 5, 9:30am*
DIAL-IN: (877) 336-4437
PARTICIPANT CODE: 1366786
Press 1 then 0 to address the Board.
*line opens at 9:00 a.m.
If you have any questions regarding this ordinance, please contact sarah.wiltfong@bizfed.org.
Grateful for your concern and civic engagement,
