Trump’s deportations could cost California ‘hundreds of billions of dollars.’ Here’s how
Mass deportations promised by President-elect Donald Trump could have a seismic economic effect in California — potentially inflicting billions of dollars in direct damages to a wide range of industries, including small business, agriculture, construction and child care, advocates and academics said. The Golden State relies heavily on the labor of immigrants, whether they’re naturalized U.S. citizens, have temporary visas or are undocumented. More than 10 million, or 27%, of California’s population is foreign-born, according to the most recent U.S. Census data. Roughly a fifth of those are thought to be undocumented; as of 2022, estimates ranged from 1.8 million undocumented immigrants, according to the Pew Research Center, to 2.4 million, according to the left-leaning Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy.
L.A. City Council postpones vote on wage hike for hotel and airport workers over tourism concerns
The Los Angeles City Council postponed a vote until December 11 on a major boost to wages for hotel and airport workers, voicing concerns that the pay hike could damage the city’s tourism industry. The council’s decision to put off the vote came as hotel owners were threatening to pull out of a deal to provide tens of thousands of rooms during the 2028 Olympic Games if the pay increase is approved, saying it would decimate their bottom line. The council had been scheduled to vote on whether to finalize changes to an existing city ordinance that would raise the minimum hourly wage for workers at large hotels and Los Angeles International Airport from the current $20.32 to $25 on Feb. 1. The minimum pay would then climb incrementally each year to reach $30 an hour by July 1, 2028, as the Olympics are set to open.
CRA BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT The secrets of a Tahoe pizza restaurant that keeps ranking top 10 in the nation
Of all the pizza restaurants in the United States — from New York City pizzerias to Chicago’s deep dish joints to the renaissance of pizza places in Los Angeles — the No. 5 spot went to a restaurant in South Lake Tahoe?
Winter or summer, Base Camp Pizza Co. on 1001 Heavenly Village Way is usually a packed house with an hours-long wait for a table. The recipe for the pizza dough isn’t the only secret to Base Camp’s success. Villaman credits his employees and the company culture for the restaurant’s success.
“I believe that pizza at its core is about sharing, and about family and about experiences together,” Ray Villaman, owner of Base Camp Pizza Co. told SFGATE.
As an employer and a foodservice operator, you are legally required to post several notices informing your employees of their rights. The All-On-One labor law poster displays the mandatory State and Federal labor laws plus the required Industrial Welfare Commission posting.
Your portion sizes are about to shrink — Will it still be worth the money to eat out?
A recent New York Times article shares how inflation has impacted the restaurant industry, with portion sizes decreasing as prices rise. It’s no secret that the American diet is known for its large portion sizes. However, the negative side effect of this is that America has a significant food waste problem. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), consumers waste 30% to 40% of the food supply in the U.S.
New York City considering legislation requiring two healthy meals on kids’ menus
The New York City Council will hear testimony on legislation that would require New York City restaurants with kids’ meals to serve at least two kids’ meals that meet nutrition standards. Testimony in support of Bill 0641-2024 will include perspectives from community members, physicians, students, faith leaders, and community organizations. If New York City passes this bill, it would become the fourth jurisdiction in the country to pass a kids’ meals nutrition standards policy, and the first to require restaurants to serve two healthy kids’ meals as opposed to one. This policy would also be the first to pass outside of Maryland, where Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Charles County have enacted similar policies.
BUSINESS ALERT FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting
The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) went into effect on January 1, 2024, and requires many companies to report their beneficial ownership information (BOI) by January 1, 2025. This report must be filed with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
Under the CTA, any foreign or domestic company that is considered a reporting company is required to provide company information and beneficial ownership information.
If you have any questions, CRA members are encouraged to contact the CRA Helpline for assistance. Learn more.
The same team you have come to depend on, now with even more resources and services to offer. No matter the restaurant size, we are helping clients develop strategies and budgets for 2025.
CRA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Natioanl Funding Q&A from the CRA — a short read
Get to know CRA Allied Member National Funding – fueling the success of restaurants with custom financing solutions since 1999. They provide quick and convenient access to working capital and equipment financing programs to help restaurants reach their goals.
MARKETPLACE PARTNER RESOURCE Employee benefit plan audits: What you need to know
Employee benefit programs vary between companies and human resources managers know that the right benefits are crucial for attracting and retaining talent. Auditing these benefit plans ensures compliance, financial soundness, and efficient resource management. Audits can uncover inefficiencies, prevent problems, and demonstrate a commitment to employee well-being. Paychex, a CRA Marketplace partner, highlights the significance of benefits audits for employers.
Did you know? CRA members receive 25% off payroll/401k administrative fees and 25% off HRS setup fees from Paychex. Learn more.
LEGAL CENTER PARTNER RESOURCE California vacation laws for the Holidays: What employers need to know
As employees begin planning winter vacations and time off to celebrate, California employers should review the state’s unique rules regarding vacation policies. To help navigate these complexities, CRA Legal partner Zaller Law Group highlights five critical vacation policy issues that can create challenges for California employers during the holidays.
Have questions? CRA members get one call (not to exceed 15 minutes) of legal advice monthly from one of our legal partners. Learn more.
The Al Fresco application deadline has been extended to December 31st. If you currently offer outdoor dining under a temporary Al Fresco authorization, please apply as soon as possible. Learn more on Al Fresco’s dedicated website.
