Restaurants Launch Class-Action Suit Against California to Recover $100 Million in Permit Fees

A group of California restaurants filed claims against state and county agencies to reclaim millions in liquor, health, and tourism fees this week. These restaurants allege that government entities continued to charge fees as restaurants were forced to close or limit their operations due to coronavirus.

The Los Angeles Times reports restaurant owners believe they were charged for permits that are largely meaningless during the coronavirus pandemic, saying they say were assessed for fees while their businesses were closed or partially operating.

According to attorney Brian Kabateck — who represents restaurants from Los Angeles, Orange, Sacramento, San Diego and Monterey Counties — the fees could be in the neighborhood of $100 million.

San Francisco and in Fresno and Placer Counties will file additional claims this week. This lawsuit is the beginning of a class-action lawsuit against state and county agencies, and California officials have 45 days to respond.

In other news:

• Homeboy Industries reopened for takeout with a new menu yesterday. Hours are 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Monday through Friday, and available via Postmates.
• Silver Lake’s Needle now has a cozy new outdoor seating area. Note that it’s self-serve.
• Michelin Guide officials are hosting an online event today at 4 p.m. to raise money for California food banks while introducing a new awards category for sustainability, according to the Los Angeles Times. It’s at guide.michelinman.com.
• After decades of operation, Pizzicoto Brentwood has permanently closed.
• Sourced Craft Cocktails teamed up with Don Julio tequila to deliver custom Dodgers tequila kits, and all right to your door. The group can do same-day delivery via https://sourcedcraftcocktails.com/. Game six against the Tampa Bay Rays starts tonight at 5:08 p.m., so order appropriately.
• California restaurants demand more than $100 million in liquor, health permit refunds [LAT]