The 2025-26 legislative session has officially begun, welcoming 36 new lawmakers to the state Capitol. The CRA Advocacy Team is already connecting with these fresh faces to address key restaurant-related issues. Lawmakers will return to Sacramento the first week of January, and the formal introduction of bills has already started. Notable updates include Senate Bill 17, which proposes a tax exemption for tips, and Senate Bill 22, which revisits the rules for cashing out gift cards. Additionally, this marks Sabrina’s final episode of “News You Need to Know” after nine impactful years, as she passes the torch to Sara. Happy holidays, and farewell from Sabrina!