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SF Govt In Ur Lawz, Overlegislatin' Its Peeps

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Our friends over at Eater SF pointed out this item in the New York Times: an article pointing out several of the ways in which San Francisco is making an impact on our everyday lives, from the plastic bag ban to fines for businesses who leave their lights on overnight.

The laws -- both proposed and passed -- that are highlighted in the article point out the possibility that San Franciscans are being overlegislated to the extreme. Sure, these laws are meant to improve the quality of life and make sure San Francisco is uber-green, but when is it too much?

Eater created the helpful list below of the instances NYT cites as SF government overlegislation. What do you think? Are we being "overlegislated"?


  • Business owners must offer health care, typically a rarity in the restaurant industry except for managers, to all employees.

  • Employers must offer 9 days sick leave to all employees.

  • Chain restaurants must post nutritional information for all menu items.

  • Minimum wage is $9.36, more than $3.50 above the federal rate, and will increase next year.

  • Plastic bags are banned from supermarkets, Styrofoam containers banned at all "food outlets."

  • The Board wants to fine stores and restaurants that sell items with high fructose corn syrup.

  • The Board proposed to prohibit new liquor stores within 500 feet of churches or recreation centers.

  • The Board proposed to require permits and insurance for events including weddings, parties, and benefits.

  • The Board proposed to fine office buildings that leave their lights on overnight.

  • The Board proposed to make all lobbyists wear name tags when doing business.

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    By SFist_Dianne in on April 21, 2008 1:27 PM

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