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Bill

Bill

SB 1350

Restaurants; food allergy awareness notice required.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Russet Perry and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia bill requiring restaurants to post food allergy awareness notices was vetoed by Governor on March 24, 2025, after passing the legislature.

Senate sustained Governor's veto
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1350

Legislative bill overview

SB 1350 would have required Virginia restaurants to display prominent notices informing customers about food allergen risks and encouraging communication with staff about allergies. The bill aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of allergenic foods and establish a standardized warning system across food service establishments.

Why is this important

Food allergies affect millions of Americans and can cause severe, life-threatening reactions. Clear allergen communication between customers and restaurant staff is a critical safety measure that can prevent hospitalizations and deaths. This bill addresses a genuine public health concern by attempting to standardize allergen awareness practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance burden: Restaurants may argue that additional signage requirements increase costs and operational complexity, particularly for small establishments with limited resources
  • Liability concerns: Unclear whether mandated notices create new legal liability frameworks or affect existing food safety regulations and restaurant liability standards
  • Effectiveness questions: Critics may contend that posted notices alone are insufficient without staff training requirements or enforcement mechanisms to ensure proper allergen handling procedures

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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