SOUTHLAND – (INT) - Class action lawsuits against the state and seven counties on behalf of restaurant owners seeking the return of state and local fees, including liquor licenses and health permits that were charged to restaurants even when they were closed and unable to operate.

The legal action is a result of restaurants across the state facing unprecedented challenges to stay open and maintain cash reserves amid COVID-19 operating restrictions.

Plaintiffs filed lawsuits in Contra Costa, Santa Clara, Monterey, Sonoma, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Placer Counties.

Earlier, restaurant owners filed class actions lawsuits in San Diego, Orange, San Francisco, Sacramento Counties, and Los Angeles County in response to the government’s policy of restricting restaurant operations while still requiring the payment of full fees.

“We view this as significant government overreach,” said lead plaintiff attorney Brian Kabateck.

California is home to nearly 60,000 restaurants, which employ approximately 1.5 million workers.

Story Date: April 21, 2021