Supes Gone Wild: Times Highlights SF "Overlegislation"

To San Franciscans—and particularly industry folk—the increasing difficulty of doing business in the city is nothing new. The recent hubbub over the Healthy SF mandate has been well-documented around these here parts and elsewhere, but over the weekend, The New York Times decided to take a step back from the situation, and basically create a comprehensive list of the ways in which San Francisco's Board of Supervisors has intervened in everyday business life. No matter what you may think of the various hot topic issues at play here, taken all together, the article does paint a pretty bleak picture regarding the supervisors' questionable impact on business, worrying everyone from Mayor Gavin to New Yorkers. Among the high(low)lights of the Board's recent laws and proposals:

· 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.