California Restaurant Reservation AntiPiracy Act.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Lowenthal and 4 co-sponsors

The bill regulates restaurant reservation systems to prevent misuse of data and protect consumer privacy and system security for California diners.

From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on APPR. with recommendation: To Consent Calendar. (Ayes 11. Noes 0.) (June 29). Re-referred to Com. on APPR.

#californiarestaurantreservationantipiracyact

California Restaurant Reservation AntiPiracy Act (AB 1640)

Purpose and intent

The bill appears to address issues related to reservation systems used by California restaurants, with a focus on preventing “anti-piracy” concerns in restaurant reservation practices. While the exact statutory language is not provided here, the title suggests aims to curb deceptive, pirated, or improper use of reservation data or systems in the restaurant industry, and to safeguard legitimate reservation operations.

Key provisions and changes (as implied by title and status)

Regulation of restaurant reservation systems: The bill likely establishes rules governing how reservations can be collected, stored, shared, or used by restaurants and related platforms.

Anti-piracy/anti-abuse provisions: It probably includes measures to prevent misuse of reservation data, protect proprietary reservation technologies, and deter illegal copying or unauthorized use of reservation systems.

Standards for operators: The bill may impose requirements on restaurants, reservation platforms, or intermediaries (e.g., data handling, consent, security practices) to ensure proper management of reservations.

Enforcement mechanisms: Provisions may authorize penalties, fines, or injunctive relief for violations, and designate an enforcement body or process for complaints and audits.

Consumer protections: Expect provisions that protect diner information, ensure accurate reservation records, and provide remedies for misrepresentation or data breaches.

Who would be affected

Restaurants and dining establishments that manage reservations.

Reservation platforms and software providers that handle booking data for California restaurants.

Front-of-house management and IT/security staff responsible for reservation systems.

Consumers/diners who use reservation services and have associated data in reservation profiles.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Committee progression:

Initial referral and first hearing occurred in early 2026.
Passed through multiple committees with approvals: P. & C.P. (Public & Consumer Protection), JUD (Judiciary), APPR (Appropriations) suspense file, and final policy/consent calendar considerations.
Notable votes indicate broad bipartisan support in the committees (e.g., 12-0, 15-0, 0-0 style margins in listed actions).

Floor actions:

The bill advanced to second reading and was ordered to third reading as of May 18, 2026.
Likely proceeding toward a final floor vote and potential passage, given the “ordered to third reading” status and previous approvals.

Sponsorship:

Primary sponsor information is not provided beyond co-sponsor Catherine Stefani, indicating support from at least one principal legislator and a named co-sponsor.

Practical considerations and potential impact

Compliance costs: Restaurants and reservation platforms may incur costs to implement new data protection, security measures, and audit capabilities.

Data privacy and security: Enhanced protections for reservation data could reduce risk of data breaches and misuse.

Market effects: Could affect how third-party reservation services operate in California, potentially restricting certain anti-competitive practices or unauthorized data use.

Consumer experience: If effective, diners might experience improved trust in reservation systems and more transparent data practices.

Notes

The summary reflects the bill’s stated title and the action history provided. For a precise understanding of obligations, definitions, exceptions, penalties, and exact statutory language, refer to the bill text as enacted or amended in the California Legislative Information system.