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Committee extends temporary outdoor‑dining and alcohol permitting relief for neighborhood restaurants
Summary
AB 592 would continue permitting flexibility for outdoor dining and alcohol service that began during the COVID pandemic; supporters said the expansion is critical for small restaurants’ recovery, while alcohol policy groups asked for sunset and grandfathering clarity.
Assemblymember Gabriel presented AB 592 to extend regulatory flexibility for expanded outdoor dining and allow temporary approvals from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for outdoor alcohol service. The bill would extend temporary permitting changes enacted during the COVID‑19 pandemic that helped many restaurants survive and later allowed them time to pursue permanent approvals.
Pat Joyce of the California Restaurant Association and restaurant owner Christy Vega (Casa Vega) testified in support, saying outdoor dining saved businesses during the pandemic and remains essential as restaurants face inflation, wage pressures and recovery from wildfires. City and tourism groups also supported the bill. Opponents from alcohol‑policy organizations questioned the length of any sunset and urged careful grandfathering language; other committee members expressed support and several asked to be coauthors.
The committee voted to pass AB 592 as amended to the Assembly Committee on Health.
