The Texas Restaurant Association (TRA) has announced a series of new and amended laws affecting the foodservice industry, following the conclusion of Texas’ 89th Regular Legislative Session. These changes, effective September 1, aim to provide regulatory consistency for small businesses, expand childcare resources, and enhance consumer protections.
Emily Williams Knight, Ed.D., president and CEO of the TRA, said that these legislative outcomes offer “immediate relief and long-term stability” for foodservice businesses. She emphasized the importance of clarity in a time marked by unpredictability.
A key legislative achievement is SB 1008, introduced by Senator Middleton and Representative Harris. This law standardizes regulations across approximately 200 health departments in Texas. It limits permit fees, removes redundant requirements, clarifies food manager standards, and mandates transparency when local health departments alter fees or inspection protocols. Kelsey Erickson Streufert, chief public affairs officer of the TRA, highlighted that “SB 1008 will save foodservice businesses hundreds or thousands of dollars every year.”
Other significant laws include SB 1265, which establishes a free website to help employers connect workers with childcare resources; SB 462, providing childcare workers priority access to scholarships for their children; HB 3963, enhancing data sharing on early childhood programs; SB 823, ensuring truth in labeling for imported shrimp; and SB 2610, offering cybersecurity protections for small businesses adhering to state guidelines.
These reforms come as restaurants face increased costs and staffing shortages. Food and labor expenses have risen by about 35% nationwide over five years. Additionally, Texas reports only 80 available workers per 100 open jobs.
The TRA continues to support the industry through newsletters, webinars, town halls across Texas via its semi-annual Texas Tour, and a toolkit for implementing SB 1008. For more information or assistance regarding these changes, operators can contact advocacy@txrestaurant.org or visit txrestaurant.org.