EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The cost of going out to eat continues to climb, but restaurant owners across Texas could soon get some relief thanks to a series of new state laws.
The measures took effect Sept. 1. They were passed during the 89th Texas legislative session and are designed to cut red tape for the food service industry. Among the changes is Senate Bill 1008, which caps local permit fees and prevents cities and counties from adding extra requirements on top of what the state already asks for.
At The Junction Brunch House in Central El Paso, owners say steady business hasn’t shielded them from the pressure of higher food prices.
“We’ve already gotten a few of the increase in food prices,” owner Becky Robertson said. “Anything that’s helpful will help us balance that off a little bit. We’ll still have to increase our menu prices a little, but it helps cover the cost of buying food.”
Chefs and staff say even modest savings could make a difference.
“It’s a very tough business. Any kind of help we can get, whether it’s government, federal, or municipal is a great help to us,” Junction Brunch House chef Felipe Gonzalez said.
Industry leaders say the impact of the new laws could stretch beyond balancing food costs.
“It’s absolutely going to save time. It’s absolutely going to save money,” said Vanessa Duran, owner of L&J Café and Texas Restaurant Association El Paso Chapter chair. “And it’s that time and money that gets reinvested back into our businesses, back into our employees, back into our communities.”
The legislation also includes expanded childcare resources, which state officials say are intended to help workers return to the restaurant industry.
Restaurant owners caution that it may take several months before the full effect of the laws is felt, but many say they’re hopeful the measures will help stabilize their businesses and keep prices down for customers.
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