California 2025-2026 Regular Session

California Senate Bill SB276

Introduced
2/4/25  
Refer
2/14/25  
Refer
3/13/25  
Report Pass
3/19/25  
Refer
3/19/25  
Report Pass
4/23/25  
Report Pass
3/19/25  
Refer
4/24/25  
Refer
3/19/25  
Report Pass
4/23/25  
Report Pass
4/23/25  
Engrossed
5/27/25  
Refer
4/24/25  
Refer
4/24/25  
Refer
6/5/25  
Report Pass
7/3/25  
Refer
7/3/25  
Report Pass
7/16/25  

Caption

City and County of San Francisco: merchandising sales.

Impact

The impact of SB 276 will be significant, aiming to empower local authorities with the necessary tools to combat rampant retail crime that has increasingly troubled San Francisco's public spaces. By establishing a permitting requirement for certain merchandise sales, the bill will introduce penalties for non-compliance, thereby incentivizing legal sales and a reduction in the visibility of stolen goods. Furthermore, it will necessitate that city officials conduct public information campaigns and engage in community outreach to ensure vendors are informed about the new regulations, potentially reshaping how street vending is conducted in the city.

Summary

Senate Bill 276, introduced by Senator Wiener, authorizes the City and County of San Francisco to implement a permitting system for the sale of specific merchandise on public property, targeting the significant issue of retail theft in the area. The bill requires that any ordinance adopted includes comprehensive findings that demonstrate a substantial pattern of merchandise theft leading to its resale in public spaces. This measure aims to address the ongoing challenges associated with street vendors and the sale of stolen goods, providing a structured approach to regulate the marketing of potentially stolen items in areas where theft prevalence has been identified.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 276 appears to be complex, as it seeks to balance public safety concerns with the rights and livelihoods of street vendors. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step towards enhancing public safety and reducing theft-related disturbances within the community, while critics may express concerns about the implications of stringent regulations on lawful vendors who may already operate on limited means. Overall, the dialogue indicates a recognition of the need for reform but also highlights the potential fracturing of community opinion on how best to support economic activity while maintaining order.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential for misinterpretation of compliance requirements by vendors and the fear that the bill could lead to adverse consequences for individuals engaged in legal but informal sales. The requirement that permits will not necessitate a social security number aims to protect individual privacy and promote inclusivity, but there may still be concerns about how this information is used and how it could inadvertently target vendors from vulnerable communities. Additionally, the enforcement mechanisms laid out could be debated in terms of their efficiency and fairness in serving those they intend to regulate.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SB925

City and County of San Francisco: merchandising sales.

CA SB273

Tidelands and submerged lands: City and County of San Francisco: Piers 30-32: mixed-use development.

CA SB593

Redevelopment: successor agency debt: City and County of San Francisco.

CA AB2488

Downtown revitalization and economic recovery financing districts: City and County of San Francisco.

CA SB1031

San Francisco Bay area: local revenue measure: transportation improvements.

CA AB598

San Francisco Bay Area Regional Housing Finance Act: regional and county expenditure plans.

CA SB827

San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District: Office of the BART Inspector General.

CA SB735

San Francisco Bay Area Regional Housing Finance Act: expenditure of funds: public works.

CA SB1227

Real property development: San Francisco: downtown revitalization zone: welfare tax exemption and California Environmental Quality Act exemption and streamlining.

CA AB1837

San Francisco Bay area: public transit: Regional Network Management Council.

Similar Bills

CA SB925

City and County of San Francisco: merchandising sales.

CA SB264

Firearms: the OC Fair and Event Center.

CA AB893

22nd District Agricultural Association: firearm and ammunition sales at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

CA SB905

Alcoholic beverages: hours of sale.

CA SB827

San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District: Office of the BART Inspector General.

CA AB1487

San Francisco Bay area: housing development: financing.

CA AB342

Vehicles: automated speed enforcement: five-year pilot program.

CA SB281

Housing development: permits and other entitlements: extension.