Council advances self‑checkout staffing rules after debate between workers and retailers

The Santa Ana City Council voted to advance an ordinance establishing minimum staffing and operational standards for self‑checkout lanes in retail stores, after an extended public hearing that split workers and business representatives.

Supporters including union leaders and grocery workers told the council the ordinance is meant to protect jobs and customer service. “This ordinance is responsible to protect buenos empleos, mejorar la seguridad pública y asegurar una mejor experiencia de compras para la comunidad,” said José Pérez, president of United for Workers Union 324, who said the measure would prevent retailers from reducing staff by relying on self‑service machines.

Retail managers and an industry representative urged caution. A representative for Albertson said Long Beach experience did not show reduced theft after limiting self‑checkout and urged more local discussion with businesses before adopting restrictions. Store managers described operational strains when one employee must supervise many self‑checkout kiosks.

Councilmembers framed the ordinance as a balance between worker safety and retail viability. Councilmember López, who brought the item forward, said the proposal aims to “ensure systems operate safely, responsibly and serve residents, workers and businesses.” Multiple members asked staff for a fuller policy analysis and implementation plan ahead of the final vote.

Council moved to introduce the ordinance and approved it on first reading; staff said the item will return for a subsequent hearing and second reading. The ordinance language approved for further consideration will be refined with the city’s policy analysis and implementation details, including enforcement and grandfathering questions for existing stores.

Next steps: staff will return the ordinance for a second reading with a policy analysis and implementation plan; the council did not adopt final operational rules at tonight’s meeting.