Franchise businesses have brought their vast financial resources to bear, channeling more than $70 million so far to overturn the law at the ballot and more than $4 million this year to lobby against the follow-up bill.
International Franchise Association President Matt Haller said in an interview that business advisers were telling prospective franchise owners to avoid opening locations in California, decrying the legislation as a union ploy to “increase market share” and add members. He said his organization has been actively working to head off similar efforts in other states.
We’re looking to talk to government workers, lobbyists, consultants and anyone who knows about political strategies and dealmaking in California’s fast-food industry.. Confidentiality is guaranteed. “Fast food corporations pooled their resources to put a landmark state labor law on hold and potentially overturn it,” Henry said, arguing for solidarity “across industries worked by SEIU members, workers in the Fight for 15 and a Union, and partners with Starbucks Workers United — that’s why working people are demanding a voice on the job through their unions.”
A worker cleans outside of an In-N-Out Burger restaurant in San Francisco on Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022. | Jeff Chiu/AP Photo Gonzalez said the 2023 bill to hold corporations liable for issues at individual restaurants would also strengthen workers’ hands by making the chains responsible. The bill’s supporters argue that companies use the franchise model to push responsibility onto restaurant operators who lack the flexibility to improve workplace conditions.